Although oral surgery may not be as complex as physical surgery, it can be equally traumatic and discomforting, if not more. You may have to endure pain for 3 - 4 days post surgery in addition to swelling and other physical discomforts. However, if you take proper precautions and good care, you may experience lesser pain and your wound may heal quickly. In this article, we have listed some simple tips for taking care of yourself post oral surgery.
Immediate Care:
Oral surgeries are mostly done on an outpatient basis. Meaning, you will be sent home immediately after surgery. Your dentist may give you a list of 'Dos & Don'ts' along with a set of prescription medicines. However, when you get home, you will largely have to rely upon home remedies to care for yourself. These are the tips you should follow immediately post oral surgery.
Stop Bleeding
Your dental clinic staff will provide gauze pads to stop bleeding. Do not change the gauze pad frequently unless absolutely necessary. Clench the gauze pad between your teeth to exert gentle but firm pressure. This will help to prevent excess blood loss. Bleeding should subside within 3 - 4 hours post surgery.
Diet
It will not be possible for you to consume normal diet immediately after surgery. Hence, make sure you stock up on fruit juices, soups and ice-creams. Take small swigs or morsels without disturbing the affected area. If you still experience numbness, avoid eating from the wounded side altogether.
Apply Ice-Packs
Frequently applying ice-packs help in reducing swelling. You may need to apply ice-packs every half an hour during the first few hours after surgery.
Other Precautions
- Do not suck, spit for a few hours, as it can open wound and restart bleeding. Avoid drinking from straws or making swishing movements.
- Brush your teeth gently. Do not make vigorous movements.
- Take your medicines on time. Typically, your dentist will prescribe a pain-killer like ibuprofen every 5 - 6 hours to alleviate pain.
- Do not smoke, as it can delay healing.
- Eat crackers or drink soda to overcome nausea, which is prevalent post oral surgery.
Gradual Care - 3 to 4 Days Post Surgery:
After the first couple of days, you may feel much better as the pain reduces significantly. However, you may still have swelling for another 3 - 4 days. You should continue to care for your wound during this period as well.
- Eat soft, nutritious foods like scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes and bananas
- Rinse your mouth with an anti-septic mouth wash or salt water
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of fresh fruit juices, water etc
- Apply ice pack 3 - 4 times a day depending upon swelling
- Brush your teeth gently for at least a week post oral surgery
The most important tip to promote healing and reducing discomfort is to take adequate rest. Do not exert yourself too much until the wound heals.
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