Post-Op Care
Your surgery is done — now the focus shifts to healing. Following your post-operative instructions closely is one of the most important things you can do to support a smooth, comfortable recovery.
Right After Your Procedure
The hours immediately following surgery are important. Plan to have a trusted adult drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. Anesthesia and sedation affect everyone differently, and having someone nearby gives you the chance to rest without worry.
Take it easy for the rest of the day. This isn’t the time to push through — give your body the space to start healing.
Managing Discomfort and Swelling
Some pain and swelling after oral surgery is completely normal. If your surgeon prescribed pain medication, take it as directed. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help manage mild discomfort.
For swelling, ice packs are your best friend in the first couple of days. Apply them in 20-minute intervals — 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off — for the first 24 to 48 hours. This helps keep inflammation down and will make a real difference in how you feel.
Keeping Your Mouth Clean
Good oral hygiene after surgery supports healing and helps prevent infection. Brush gently, and be careful to avoid the surgical area until your care team gives you the go-ahead. Warm saltwater rinses are a great way to keep things clean without irritating the site. Hold off on commercial mouthwashes unless your surgeon has specifically recommended one.
Getting Back to Your Routine
Most patients are surprised by how quickly they start feeling more like themselves. That said, it’s important not to rush it. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until your surgeon clears you. As the days go on and healing progresses, you can gradually ease back into your normal activities. When in doubt, just call and ask.
Follow-Up and When to Reach Out
For some procedures, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled to monitor your healing. We’ll let you know what to expect before you leave the office.
In the meantime, keep an eye out for anything that doesn’t feel right. If you notice excessive bleeding, severe pain that your medication isn’t managing, or signs of infection like fever, significant swelling, or discharge, please don’t wait — reach out to us right away.
Most recoveries go smoothly, and we want yours to be no different. If something feels off or you simply have a question, our team is always here to help.
Recovery Questions, Answered
For most procedures, the sharpest discomfort tends to ease within the first few days. Swelling may peak around day two or three before gradually improving. Everyone heals at their own pace, but your surgeon will give you a realistic sense of what to expect for your specific procedure before you leave the office.
Soft foods are your best option in the days following surgery. Think soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies — anything that doesn’t require much chewing and won’t put pressure on the surgical site. Avoid anything hot, crunchy, or chewy until you’re further along in healing.
A small amount of bleeding or oozing in the first 24 hours is normal. Gently biting down on gauze can help. If bleeding is heavy or doesn’t seem to be slowing, contact our office or seek care right away.
It depends on the procedure and the nature of your work. Some patients feel comfortable returning within a day or two. Others may need a bit more time, especially after more involved surgeries. Your care team will give you personalized guidance before you’re discharged.
Meet the Surgeons
Behind Your Care
Our doctors bring together decades of training, broad surgical expertise, and a deep commitment to the communities they serve.
