POST-OPERATIVE INFORMATION
I had surgery a few days ago, why am I still swollen?
Facial swelling will often increase for the first 3 or 4 days after surgery and then will start to subside.
I am still bleeding, what should I do?
Some oozing or bleeding from the surgical site may occur for up to 3-5 days following your surgery. If the bleeding seems heavy you can take folded gauze or moistened regular tea bags wrapped in gauze and place them over the bleeding site. Bite down firmly for 1 hour without changing. Repeat the procedure if bleeding continues. Continuous pressure controls bleeding. Please call our office if the bleeding continues despite these measures.
Why do I have a hole in my mouth? How long will it be there?
This is the area where the tooth was removed. It will close in approximately 1-8 weeks. It is important for you to keep the socket clean and free of food debris while it is healing. 24 hours after surgery you may resume normal tooth-brushing and begin gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water (1/4 teaspoon salt to an 8oz glass of warm water).
How long will I have discomfort?
The amount of discomfort you have will depend on how extensive your surgery was. It is not uncommon to have some level of discomfort for at least a week or 2 after surgery. Remember it does take between 1-8 weeks for the areas to completely heal.
When can I smoke? You should not smoke after surgery.
Smoking of ANY kind after oral surgery interferes with the normal healing process and can increase your risk of developing a dry socket, infections and increases pain.
I’m nauseous, what do I do?
It’s not unusual for narcotic pain medication to cause nausea or vomiting in some people. Try eating prior to taking the medication or decrease the amount of the medication you are taking. Beverages like ginger ale have a soothing effect on the stomach. You may call the office if you have questions.
When can I have something to eat?
About an hour after surgery, you may remove the gauze sponges that have been placed in your mouth and have something to eat. Be sure to eat foods that are soft for the first couple of days after surgery. Examples are smoothies, milk shakes, ice cream, mashed potatoes, pasta, pudding, pancakes and scrambled eggs.
When can I start wearing my retainer again?
You can start wearing your retainer again as soon as it is comfortable for you. You may need to leave it out for the first few days after surgery due to discomfort and swelling.
Is it normal to run a temperature after surgery?
Some patients develop a slight elevation in body temperature following oral surgery. You shouldn’t be concerned unless your fever goes above 101.5 degrees. If it does, please call us.