Post-Op Instructions
Optimum healing after any dental procedure is absolutely crucial, especially when it is oral surgery. A lot of uncomfortable symptoms may be experienced by patients after undergoing dental treatment. That is why we have put together a few post-op instructions that will help you heal better and respond appropriately to dental treatment.
Common Symptoms After Dental Procedures
- Bleeding
Bleeding is a common symptom after surgical procedures, as they usually involve making incisions to the soft tissues of the mouth. Although the bleeding stops within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, you may experience periodic bleeding during the next seven to ten days. It is best to use a clean piece of gauze to control bleeding. Please don’t try to dislodge the clot, as it could cause more bleeding.
- Swelling
The swelling would be prominent for four to five days after oral surgery, which would slowly subside by itself. As a measure to get relief from the condition, you may place a cold pack or a damp washcloth on the cheek to reduce swelling. You can keep the cold pack on for 20 minutes and off for 10 minutes intermittently. The same can be continued for two to three hours a day.
- Pain
Pain is the most common symptom after dental surgery, especially when you bite or chew food, brush your teeth, or sometimes even while moving your jaw. The dentist would prescribe pain-relieving medication to help you cope with it. In case the pain continues for too long, please reach out to the dentist to have it addressed.
Best Ways to Enable Optimum Healing
Your diet plays a significant role when it comes to how soon your wound can heal and how much pain you experience during it. It is advisable to keep away from hot or spicy foods as they can cause pain and a burning sensation near the site of surgery. It is best to opt for a soft or liquid diet to keep the clot from getting dislodged.
You may also experience mild soreness or numbness in the gums, which would reduce gradually by itself. Please stick to the medication regime your dentist has prescribed to facilitate healing of the wound and prevent the development of an infection. To help in the long run, please practice optimum oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
We invite you to schedule a consultation with our team of dental experts at our Long Beach, CA office to get all your oral concerns addressed at the earliest. Please call us at (562) 432-9883 or schedule an online consultation, and we’ll be happy to help.
