Do you have oral surgery coming up? You may be wondering how to handle the recovery process once you return home. We’re here to help! It’s important to properly take care of yourself after your procedure to allow for smooth and healthy healing. This aids in lowering your pain and discomfort as well as preventing infections from forming. Here are some tips for a smooth recovery after your surgery:
- Rest: Rest is the most important part of recovery. Taking it easy and limiting your physical activity for 48 to 72 hours after surgery helps your body to focus on what it needs to do: heal your smile!
- Eat soft foods: After oral surgery, it’s always best to follow a soft food diet in order to protect the surgical site and limit any pain you may experience.
- Take your medication: If you’ve been prescribed pain medication, always take it as directed. Setting reminders on your phone can help ensure you don’t forget!
- Clean the area: If your surgeon advises you to, keep the surgical area clean. This can mean changing out your gauze, rinsing with salt water, using an antibiotic mouthwash, or carefully brushing your teeth. Always check with your surgeon about when you can begin these steps.
- Use cold compresses and stay elevated: Applying ice packs or cold compresses to your cheeks for 15-20 minutes can help reduce your swelling. In addition, make sure to keep your head slightly elevated to relieve any pressure, pain or swelling.
Recovery after oral surgery requires patience and shouldn’t be rushed. If you ever have a question or concern regarding your healing process, don’t hesitate to call your surgeon and check up on it. We want to make sure your healing goes as smoothly as possible!
