Post-Operative Instructions
Important Pre-Operative Care
Following your dental procedure, it is critical to follow these guidelines to promote proper healing and reduce the risk of complications:
- Avoid spitting — Spitting can dislodge blood clots necessary for healing.
- Avoid straws — The suction created can disturb the surgical site.
- Avoid smoking — Smoking significantly delays healing and increases risk of complications.
- Keep fingers away from the surgical area — Do not touch or poke the site.
Dislodging blood clots increases the risk of infection and can significantly delay your recovery.
BLEEDING
Some minor bleeding is expected after dental surgery. It will usually subside quickly and stop within an hour or two after surgery. A little oozing is normal for the first day.
To control bleeding, place a piece of clean, damp gauze over the surgical area and bite down firmly with steady pressure for 30 to 45 minutes. Repeat as necessary. If gauze is unavailable, a moistened black tea bag can be used as a substitute—the tannic acid in the tea helps to contract bleeding vessels.
If bleeding persists or becomes heavy, please contact our office at (925) 397-1963.
SWELLING
Swelling after oral surgery is normal and can range from mild to severe. Swelling typically increases over the first 24 to 48 hours before it begins to subside. In some cases, bruising may develop in the area surrounding the surgical site. This is also normal and will resolve on its own.
DIET
For the first few days following surgery, stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing. Good options include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
- Cottage cheese
- Soup
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies (no straws)
You may resume your regular diet when you feel comfortable doing so. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until the surgical area has healed.
ORAL HYGIENE
Good oral hygiene is essential for proper healing. Beginning the day after surgery, start gentle salt water rinses using 1 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water. Rinse gently several times a day, especially after meals.
Continue brushing your teeth as normal, but use caution near the surgical areas. Avoid vigorous rinsing or brushing directly on the surgical site for the first few days.
Questions about your recovery? Call us at (925) 397-1963
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will I experience bleeding after my dental procedure?
Some minor bleeding and oozing is normal for the first day following oral surgery. To control bleeding, bite down firmly on a clean, damp piece of gauze for 30 to 45 minutes. If bleeding is heavy or persists beyond a few hours, please contact our office at (925) 397-1963.
What can I eat after dental surgery?
For the first few days, stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing, such as mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, pasta, cottage cheese, soup, and smoothies. Avoid using a straw, as the suction can disturb the surgical site. You may gradually return to your normal diet as comfort allows, avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods until fully healed.
When can I brush my teeth after my procedure?
You may resume brushing your teeth the day after surgery, but use caution near the surgical area and avoid brushing directly on the wound for the first few days. Begin gentle salt water rinses (1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) the day after surgery, especially after meals, to keep the area clean.
Is swelling after dental surgery normal, and how do I manage it?
Yes, swelling is a normal part of the healing process and typically peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours before gradually subsiding. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals during the first 24 hours can help minimize swelling. Some bruising around the surgical site is also normal and will resolve on its own.
Why should I avoid smoking, spitting, and straws after oral surgery?
All three actions create suction or pressure in the mouth that can dislodge the blood clot forming at the surgical site. This clot is essential for proper healing. Disrupting it can lead to a painful condition called dry socket, which significantly delays recovery and increases the risk of infection. Smoking also restricts blood flow, further impairing the healing process.
Visit Our Friendly Office!
We look forward to welcoming you and helping you achieve the smile of your dreams.