Recovery following oral surgery can be physically and emotionally taxing on any patient. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we blend compassionate care with advanced dental practices. We understand that the path to a radiant smile post-surgery is paved with mindful aftercare. Embracing recovery with the same enthusiasm as we do for oral health, we offer tailored tips to ease your healing process.
Adhering closely to your dentist’s recommendations is paramount. It’s important to be mindful of your diet by choosing soft, nutritious foods that won’t strain your recovery. Also, don’t underestimate the soothing power of ice packs – these are simple and effective against pain and swelling, helping you quickly regain your bright, confident smile. Rockland Dental Specialists also has several other specific tips that can aid you through the healing process.
What Should You Expect Immediately After Oral Surgery?
Following oral surgery, you may experience several symptoms. Some common issues are swelling, pain, bleeding, and fatigue. Because of these issues, we strongly recommend you utilize the following steps to mitigate interruptions to daily life:
- Rest and take it easy: If necessary, plan to rest for the remainder of the day. You’ll likely be exhausted, whether you were given sedative medication or otherwise. Primarily, if you were issued a sedative, avoid driving or participating in other strenuous activities. Get help from friends and family whenever possible.
- Block bleeding: Reduce bleeding at any surgery site by biting on gauze.
- Protect any blood clots: Be extremely careful around the surgery site, as it can be easily disturbed and injured. Avoid using straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, consuming carbonated beverages, and spitting.
- Take pain medication: Whether prescribed by your dentist or taken over the counter, use pain medication to manage the pain you experience.
Your dentist will also warn you of any other symptoms or side effects specific to your surgery, including those related to any drugs used at the time. If you have questions about what to expect immediately after your oral surgery, don’t hesitate to communicate with your dentist. Rockland Dental Specialists can also assist you with care after your oral surgery if needed.
How Can You Effectively Manage Pain and Discomfort?
There are several ways to manage pain and discomfort after an oral surgery. Other than utilizing pain medication, you can manage pain by:
- Rinsing with water and table salt: Warm salt water can help reduce the swelling and pain you experience after oral surgery.
- Icing: If you experience swelling or bruising after oral surgery, icing the area can be very helpful. Apply ice for up to 30 minutes on one side of your jaw, but be sure to remove your ice pack after this period.
- Watching what you eat: Certain foods can be harsh on the surgery site, so avoid anything that may cause damage to the area. In particular, foods that are too hot, cold, tough, chewy, or spicy should be avoided.
If you experience severe pain or notice any signs of infection, please get in touch with your oral surgeon as soon as possible. Any issues should be addressed quickly, and your oral surgeon can provide valuable guidance.
What Are the Best Foods to Eat After Oral Surgery?
If you need assistance deciding what foods to eat after oral surgery, the following are some of our favorites to recommend:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Instant oatmeal
- Soup
- Soft cheeses
- Eggs
- Popsicles
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Fish
- Deli meats
- Ice cream
In general, these are safe options for you to utilize. Opt for something else if you are unsure about food safety after oral surgery. Your dentist or oral surgeon may also provide a list of safe foods before or after the procedure. It’s also beneficial to drink lots of water during your recovery.
Call Rockland Dental Specialists Today: Get Outstanding Care
Undergoing oral surgery can be a significant event, and having the correct information for a smooth recovery is crucial. At Rockland Dental Specialists, we combine compassionate care with advanced dental practices to guide you through this process.
Understanding the importance of post-surgery care, we provide tailored advice to ensure your healing journey is as comfortable as possible. To schedule an appointment or get more support, please get in touch with us by calling (845) 400-9205 or completing our contact form.
