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After Oral Surgery - Postoperative Instructions

Prepared by Dr. Onur Cavus, BDS, PhD

General Dentist — Certified in IV Sedation

Implant Dentistry Toronto

A Smooth Recovery Starts with Proper Care

Following these instructions will help you heal quickly and minimize complications after your oral surgery.

1. Bleeding Control

  • Bite gently but firmly on the gauze pad placed over the surgical site for 30–60 minutes.

  • Replace the gauze every 30 minutes until active bleeding subsides.

  • A small amount of oozing for 24 hours is normal.

  • If bleeding persists, bite on a moist tea bag for 30 minutes—the tannic acid helps clotting.

  • Avoid spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first 24 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.

2. Swelling and Bruising

  • Apply an ice pack to the cheek near the surgical area for the first 24 hours — 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.

  • Swelling typically peaks after 48–72 hours, then subsides gradually.

  • Keep your head elevated when resting.

  • Minor bruising may appear; this is normal and will fade within several days.

3. Pain Management

  • Take prescribed or recommended pain medications as directed.

  • Begin your first dose before the numbness fully wears off for best comfort.

  • Avoid aspirin unless specifically prescribed, as it may increase bleeding.

4. Diet

  • Begin with cool, soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies (no straw), mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, or soups at room temperature.

  • Gradually return to your regular diet over 5–7 days.

  • Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that may irritate the surgical area.

  • Drink plenty of fluids, but do not use a straw for the first 24 hours.

5. Oral Hygiene

  • Do not rinse or brush the surgical area for the first 24 hours.

  • After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in one glass of warm water) after meals and before bed.

  • Brush your remaining teeth as usual, avoiding the surgical sites.

  • Do not use mouthwash for the first few days unless prescribed.

6. Physical Activity

  • Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or sports for at least 3–5 days.

  • Rest and allow your body to heal.

7. Sutures

  • If dissolvable sutures were used, they usually disappear in 7–10 days.

  • If non-resorbable sutures were placed, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled for removal.

8. Smoking and Vaping

  • Avoid smoking or vaping for at least 7 days after surgery.

  • Smoking can delay healing and significantly increase the risk of dry socket and infection.

9. Possible Side Effects

You may experience:

  • Mild swelling or jaw stiffness

  • Slight bruising around the cheeks

  • Temporary difficulty opening your mouth fully

These are expected and should improve within several days.

10. When to Contact the Office Immediately

Call the office right away if you notice any of the following:

  • Heavy bleeding that does not stop after 2 hours of pressure

  • Severe or worsening pain unrelieved by medication

  • Fever above 38°C

  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

  • Pus, foul taste, or persistent swelling beyond 5 days

  • Prolonged numbness after 24 hours