At Southwest Oral Surgery, we prioritize your comfort and well-being following your oral surgery procedure. Please review the following post-operative instructions carefully.
These guidelines are general in nature, but if you have questions about your specific procedure, do not hesitate to call our office at (623) 792-5794.
The Day of Surgery
During the first hour after your surgery, gently bite down on the provided gauze packs to help control bleeding. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze packs as needed and apply gentle pressure.
Take care not to disturb the surgical area. Refrain from rinsing vigorously or touching the area with any objects. You may brush your teeth gently but be cautious around the surgical site.
Intermittent bleeding or oozing is normal in the hours following surgery. If bleeding persists or becomes heavy, please contact our office for further instructions.
Swelling is a common side effect of oral surgery. To minimize swelling, apply a cold pack or ice bag to the cheek near the surgical site for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 48 hours (about 2 days). If prescribed, take any medication for swelling as directed.
Pain management is essential for your comfort. You likely received a prescription for pain medication. Take the first dose before the anesthesia wears off to manage discomfort effectively. If you experience nausea from pain medication, try taking it with a small amount of food and plenty of water.
Follow a tiered pain management plan as prescribed, which may include medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or tramadol. Do not exceed the recommended dosage of any medication, and avoid combining ibuprofen with other NSAIDs.
Nausea is a common side effect of sedation and pain medications. To alleviate nausea, take pain medication with food and plenty of water. Clear fluids and classic Coca-Cola may also help settle your stomach. Contact our office if nausea persists.
Diet plays a crucial role in your recovery. Stick to soft, nourishing foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs during the first few days. Avoid using a straw, as it can dislodge blood clots and impede healing. If you encounter sharp edges in the surgical area or experience discomfort, please contact our office for further guidance.
Avoid smoking, as it can hinder the healing process.
Instructions for the Second and Third Days
Keep your mouth clean to promote healing. Rinse with a saline solution made from ¼ teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water. Gently rinse with portions of the solution two to three times daily.
Resume your normal oral hygiene routine as soon as possible but be gentle around the surgical site.
Apply warm compresses to swollen areas for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to reduce discomfort and stiffness.
Your healing process should follow a gradual trajectory, with the most significant discomfort typically occurring in the first three days. If you do not experience continued improvement or have concerns about your recovery, please contact our office promptly.
Our goal is to ensure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible. By following these instructions and reaching out to us with any questions or concerns, you can facilitate a successful healing process. Please don’t hesitate to contact our office if you need assistance.
