After oral surgery instructions
These instructions are general guidelines. You will receive personalized instructions specific to your procedure on the day of surgery.
Bleeding
Some bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours.
- Bite firmly on the gauze for 30 minutes.
- If bleeding continues, replace with fresh gauze and apply steady pressure for another 30 minutes.
- Slight oozing or pink saliva is normal.
Avoid:
- Spitting forcefully
- Rinsing vigorously
- Drinking through a straw
- Smoking
- If bleeding becomes heavy or does not slow with pressure, contact our office.
Swelling
Swelling is expected and usually peaks 48–72 hours after surgery.
For the first 48 hours: Ice your face 30 minutes on, 30 minutes off while awake.
After 48 hours: Switch to warm compresses if helpful.
Keep your head elevated, including when sleeping, to reduce swelling.
Pain
Some discomfort is normal.
- Take prescribed medications as directed.
- Ibuprofen is often very effective for inflammation.
- Stay ahead of pain by taking medication before numbness fully wears off.
If pain significantly worsens after several days instead of improving, please contact us.
When Will the Anesthesia Wear Off?
Local anesthesia typically wears off within 2–6 hours, depending on the medication used.
If longer-acting anesthetics were used, numbness may last up to 72 hours.
Rest & activity
- Rest the day of surgery.
- Avoid strenuous activity for several days.
- Keep your head elevated when lying down.
Gentle movement is fine — just avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise early on.
Soft food diet
For the first several days choose foods that require minimal chewing:
- Smoothies (no straws)
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Pasta
- Soup (lukewarm, not hot)
- Soft rice
- Applesauce
Avoid:
- Chips
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Crunchy or sharp foods
Popcorn
Advance your diet as comfort allows.
Can I brush my teeth?
Yes — oral hygiene is very important.
- You may brush your teeth the night of surgery, but be gentle around surgical areas.
- Use a soft or pediatric toothbrush if helpful.
- Avoid aggressive brushing over sutures.
Can I rinse after I eat?
For the first 24 hours, avoid vigorous rinsing.
After 24 hours:
Rinse gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of warm water) after meals.
If you had wisdom teeth removed:
- Begin using the Monoject syringe after day 4.
- Fill with warm salt water.
- Gently irrigate the lower extraction sites after meals to keep food debris out.
Continue irrigation until the sites close.
Do I have a dry socket?
Dry socket typically develops 5 days after extraction and may cause:
- Increasing pain (not improving pain)
- Pain radiating to the ear
- Bad taste or odor
- Little visible blood clot in the socket
It is uncomfortable but treatable. Call us if you suspect this.
Signs of infection
Contact us if you notice:
- Increasing swelling after day 4-5
- Fever
- Pus or foul drainage
- Worsening pain
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Bruising
- When in doubt — call us
Healing is a process. Some swelling, discomfort, and fatigue are expected. If something feels abnormal or concerning, we would much rather hear from you early. We are here to support you through recovery.
