Oral surgery improves your dental health and well-being, whether for wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, or corrective jaw surgery. However, the journey doesn’t end with the procedure; the recovery phase is equally critical. A smooth recovery can increase the chances of the surgery’s success and minimize discomfort or complications.
Check out our tips and tricks to help you recover quickly and comfortably from oral surgery.
The Recovery Timeline
The recovery period can vary depending on the type of oral surgery performed. Minor procedures, like simple tooth extractions, may require only a few days of downtime, while more extensive surgeries, like dental implants, might require several months of healing. Your dentist will provide a detailed recovery timeline, including what to expect in the days and weeks following your procedure.
Immediate Post-Surgery Care
Right after surgery, it’s essential to rest, manage swelling with ice packs, take prescribed medication as directed, and stick to a soft diet to help heal.
- Rest and elevate. Rest is essential for the first 24 hours after surgery. Keep your head elevated on a pillow to help drain lymph fluid and reduce swelling. Avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting or bending, which can increase intracranial pressure and exacerbate swelling or cause bleeding.
- Ice packs and medication. Applying ice packs to the cheek near the surgical site can reduce swelling. Place the ice pack on your cheek for 15 minutes on and off. If prescribed, take pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication as directed to manage discomfort and swelling.
- Diet adjustments. Stick to a soft or liquid diet immediately after surgery. Lukewarm soups, bone broths, yogurts, and smoothies are excellent choices that nourish your body without irritating the surgical site.
Navigating the First Week
During the first week after surgery, focus on gentle oral hygiene, slowly returning to your usual activities, and paying attention to your body’s healing cues.
- Oral hygiene. Maintaining oral hygiene is vital to prevent infection. Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water or an antiseptic rinse recommended by your dentist, but avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which can dislodge blood clots vital for healing and prevent complications like dry socket.
- Gradually resume normal activities. Gradually increase your activity level based on your comfort and the guidance of your oral surgeon. Listen to your body, and don’t rush the healing process.
Long-Term Recovery Tips
For long-term recovery, emphasize good nutrition, avoid smoking and alcohol, attend all follow-up visits, and stay alert for any signs of complications to ensure a healthy healing journey.
- Nutrition. Proper nutrition is vital to healing. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins A and C and minerals like zinc and selenium, which promote healing and stay hydrated.
- Avoid harmful habits. Smoking and alcohol consumption can impact the healing process. Stop these activities until your dentist gives you the all-clear.
- Follow-up visits. Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your healing and address any concerns.
- Be alert for signs of infection. While complications are rare, it’s essential to be vigilant. Signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or fever, require immediate attention from your dentist.
Care for Your Oral Health and Recover Faster
Recovering from oral surgery requires patience, proper care, and adherence to your dentist’s advice. Following these tips and tricks can ensure a smooth and speedy recovery, minimize discomfort, and prevent complications.
Remember, every patient’s recovery journey is unique. Hence, it’s important to communicate openly with your dentist about your progress and any concerns you may have.