Recovering from Oral Surgery: What to Expect

Oral surgery is an umbrella term that covers different procedures done on your teeth, gums, jaw, or mouth. Some surgeries, like wisdom teeth removal, are pretty standard. Others, like jaw alignment or dental implants, are a little more complex. You might need oral surgery to remove an infection, repair a damaged tooth, or prepare for other dental treatments.

Before surgery, you might need treatments to prepare your mouth for the procedure. For example, if you’re getting a dental implant, you may need a bone graft first. Some surgeries are quick and easy, while others take longer to heal. Regardless of the procedure, recovery time can vary based on the type of procedure, your overall health, and the dentist’s expertise.

At OneSource Dental of South Tampa in Tampa, Florida, you get the best possible outcomes with Nancy Horton, DMD, and our team. From pre-surgery prep to post-operative care, there’s no better place to trust your smile if you need oral surgery. Here, we talk you through what to expect after the procedure.

What to expect in the first 24 hours

Right after your surgery, you might feel groggy if you had sedation. Once the numbness wears off, some pain, swelling, and tenderness are normal. Dr. Horton gives you instructions on managing discomfort, which may include over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication. Using an ice pack for 20 minutes at a time can also help with swelling.

Expect minor bleeding in the first few hours. Biting down on gauze can help control it. Rest, keep your head elevated, and avoid anything that could disturb the healing site, such as smoking, drinking through a straw, or eating hard foods. Doing these can dislodge the blood clot that forms at the site, leading to complications such as dry socket, which delays healing.

Managing pain and swelling over the next few days

Swelling usually peaks around the second or third day before gradually subsiding. Some bruising might occur, especially if the surgery was complicated. Keep using ice packs for the first couple of days, then switch to a warm compress to ease your discomfort.

Dr. Horton may prescribe pain medication, but over-the-counter pain relievers work fine for many people. If we prescribe antibiotics, take them as directed to prevent infection. Staying hydrated and eating soft, easy-to-chew foods, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies, can also help speed up recovery.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential, but you need to be gentle. Rinse with salt water to keep the area clean. Don’t brush directly on the surgery site until Dr. Horton tells you it’s safe.

Signs of normal healing vs. warning signs

It’s normal to have discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding for a few days. These symptoms should improve with time. However, keep an eye out for signs that something might be wrong, like:

• Severe pain that doesn’t get better after a few days
• Heavy bleeding that won’t stop
• Fever, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth (signs of infection)
• Trouble breathing or swallowing

If you notice any of these symptoms, call Dr. Horton right away. At OneSource Dental of South Tampa, we’re always available to help with any concerns and ensure your healing process goes smoothly.

Depending on the type of surgery, most people can return to work or school within a few days. However, you might need to wait longer if your job involves heavy lifting or intense activity.

Take it easy for the first few days, and avoid exercise and activities that raise your blood pressure, as these can cause more bleeding and swelling. Also, avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that irritate the surgery site.

Recovering from oral surgery doesn’t have to be complicated. By following Dr. Horton’s instructions, eating the right foods, and resting when needed, you can return to your regular routine quickly. If you need oral surgery, schedule a consultation with us today or call 813-879-9299.