New York Oral Surgeon Explains The Recovery Process

After oral surgery (including wisdom teeth extraction, TMJ surgery or cleft palate repair), you may be concerned about what the recovery process involves. Take a look at some of these recovery tips from a New York Oral Surgeon and get the relief you need right away.

Swelling After Oral Surgery

New York Oral Surgeon: Don’t be alarmed by some minor swelling. These are common symptoms after oral surgery. If you are experiencing swelling after oral surgery, try placing a piece of ice, wrapped in cloth over that area of your face. Rotate between 10 minutes on, followed by 20 minutes off. Repeat as needed for the first 24 hours after oral surgery

Bleeding After Oral Surgery

New York Oral Surgeon: Bleeding is common for the first several hours after oral surgery. To control the bleeding, place a piece of clean moist gauze over the bleed and apply pressure for about 45 minutes. You can also try using a moistened tea bad as an alternative. The tannic acid in the tea helps blood clots to form. If the bleeding does not start to clot 6 hours after oral surgery, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. Avoid rinsing, spitting and drinking through straws or drinking hot liquids for the first 24 hours after oral surgery. These activities increase the likelihood of the clot dislodging, which can cause a dry socket.

Pain After Oral Surgery

New York Oral Surgeon: After oral surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe pain medications such as narcotics to help relieve your discomfort. Otherwise, medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) can be taken for minor pain.

Eating After Oral Surgery

New York Oral Surgeon: Until the numbness from anesthesia has worn off after oral surgery, you should stick to a liquid diet. Then try soft foods for a few days. Also, if you are taking pain relievers, avoid drinking alcohol.

Taking Antibiotics After Oral Surgery

New York Oral Surgeon: If your dentist or oral surgeon prescribed antibiotics after your surgery, it is important that you continue to take the medication until the full prescription is gone.

If you’re interested in more information about recovery after oral surgery, call our dentist offices in NYC today.