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Clear communication with our team is an important step in the healing process. We will consult with you to discuss the necessary steps you should take to facilitate proper healing after your treatment. The majority of treatments we perform are outpatient procedures. This includes dental implant placement and wisdom teeth extractions. You will be sent home shortly after your procedure is complete. It is essential you take proper care of yourself at home to ensure your mouth can fully heal.
Managing Post-Surgical Bleeding
Following surgery, it is important to reduce any bleeding that may occur. Usually within an hour, bleeding tends to slow down. Bleeding may occur for the first several hours following oral surgery. To reduce bleeding, bite firmly down on a clean gauze pad. The area will require firm but gentle pressure. Once the gauze pad is soaked, you may replace It with a clean pad. Some medications can cause longer bleeding times, including aspirin, blood thinners, and NSAIDS (ibuprofen).
No Sucking, Spitting, or Smoking
Avoid making sucking or spitting motions with your mouth following surgery. This can sometimes lead to reopening the wound and can cause a dry socket. We advise that patients refrain from drinking with a straw following treatment. If you have to brush and rinse, do it very gently. Smoking is a major no-no; this will greatly impede your healing and lead to dry socket, which is quite painful.
Stick to Soft Foods
Most oral surgeries require you to fast prior to your treatment. This means you will likely be hungry following your procedure. Following our instructions, start eating soft foods that are easy to chew. You will also need to drink to replenish your fluids. Water, juice, and milk are good to drink, while foods such as pudding, mashed potatoes, and ice cream are safe to eat. Chew slowly and cautiously, especially if your mouth still feels numb following your procedure.
Take Your Medicine As Prescribed
Our oral surgeon in 14750 may prescribe pain medication to manage discomfort. Taking Ibuprofen every 4 to 6 hours is a common course of action you can take following most surgeries. You can also apply a cold compress over the area of treatment for the first day to reduce swelling.
These simple recommendations will ensure that your healing process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible. If you have any post-op concerns, please contact our oral surgery office in Lakewood, NY.
