Steps to Follow After Oral Surgery

Oral surgeries are becoming more painless and comfortable due to advances in technology. To solve specific oral problems, we at Down to Earth Dental in Pueblo, CO, conduct oral surgical operations such as tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, bone grafting, jaw correction surgery, sleep apnea treatments, and others.

What Is Oral Surgery?

Oral surgery refers to any surgical process that treats complex conditions in or around your mouth and jaw. Usually, a dental specialist performs these particular types of oral procedures.

Some Common Types of Oral Surgery

• Tooth extraction
• Gum Surgery
• Bone graft
• Dental implants
• Sleep apnea surgery
• Root canal 
• Jaw and teeth repair following an injury

What to Do After Oral Surgery

• Rest Following Oral Surgery

After all, your body requires rest! If you want to lie down, keep your head propped up with pillows to improve blood flow to your head and reduce swelling in your mouth and face. Propping your head will also help to minimize post-oral surgery bleeding.

• Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene

As part of the aftercare recommendations, the oral surgeon will explain how to maintain oral hygiene without interfering with the healing process. This frequently entails not using mouthwash and not brushing the surgical region while still brushing the surrounding teeth lightly.

• Apply Ice on Your Face

To minimize swelling, apply ice to your face throughout the day. Most dental surgeons would advise you to alternate between 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off of the ice.

• Protect the Blood Clot

Make sure you don’t smoke, use a straw, or consume any carbonated or alcoholic beverages for at least three days after the procedure. This helps to keep the blood clot secure and prevents the development of a painful dry socket, which will slow the healing process and necessitate the assistance of an oral surgeon.

• Take Your Medications as Directed

Take your pain medication as you're instructed, even if you're not in pain. It is far easier to prevent discomfort than it is to manage it once it has occurred. 

• Watch What You Eat

Following oral surgery, the patient should only consume soft or liquid meals such as yogurt, oats, applesauce, milkshakes, smoothies, or broth. Make sure kids avoid foods that are tough, chewy, or spicy, as well as those that are too cold or too hot.

If you need an oral surgery procedure, visit Down to Earth Dental at 1407 W 29th St, Pueblo, CO 81008, or call us at (719) 546 0404 to schedule an appointment.