Having an oral surgery procedure can be necessary to ensure your oral health is at its maximum. The recovery, on the other hand, might be difficult. There are many things that you should be mindful of when it comes to the recovery period. Your dentist or oral surgeon might have given you some instructions after the procedure, which are essential to follow. However, there can be many other factors to be aware of when taking care of your mouth post-surgery. We’ll be covering what to do and what not to do on your road to recovery:
What To Do
Rest
No matter what, it’s important that you get some rest after your oral surgery. You may have received a sedative before the surgery, so you will most likely still feel drowsy or fatigued. Make sure you don’t do any driving or any strenuous activities.
Take Your recommended and prescribed medications
Stay on top of taking your prescribed medications. It’s important that you follow the instructions and take it when necessary, even if you aren’t feeling any pain. Don’t skip a dose. Take the medication at the instructed time.
Ice
Whether you received oral surgery for a root canal, dental implants, or even a wisdom tooth extraction, you may experience some bruising or swelling. Apply ice to your mouth, as your jaw muscles could use some cold relief. If surgery was done on both sides of your mouth, take 15 minutes on each side while icing. The swelling should begin to lessen after 2 or 3 days. Ice should not be applied directly to the skin. Wrap the ice bag with a towel first before applying it.
Keep an Eye Out
After your oral surgery, keep an eye on any possible infections or worsening pain or swelling. You may notice that you’re developing a fever or have extreme difficulty swallowing or breathing. If this persists or worsens, make sure to call your dentist as soon as possible.
Eat Soft Foods
Stick to soft foods or a liquid diet for the first few days after your oral surgery. These could be foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, gelatin, pudding, or thin soup. Make sure the soup is not too hot, as it could hurt your surgical sites. Gradually integrate solid foods as you heal, but don’t overdo it. If you’ve received a tooth extraction, don’t drink through a straw, as the suction can negatively impact any blood clotting or stitched-up wounds.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Your trustworthy Winnipeg dentist or oral surgeon may instruct you not to rinse your mouth on the first day but most likely will have you start on the second-day post-surgery. A recommended method to ensure oral hygiene post-surgery is a salt water rinse. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water every 2-3 hours or 3-4 times a day for the next two weeks. It will help with keeping your wounds free of food debris, as well as take care of any bleeding that may occur. Your dentist may instruct you to wait for a day or two after the surgery to begin brushing. Make sure you don’t press too hard, as you don’t want to open the wound again. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene post-operation, as food can get stuck in your surgical wound and cause an infection.
What Not To Do
Don’t Overexert Yourself
The first few days after any oral surgery can be rough. While you might be someone who enjoys going to the gym or for a run, avoid doing so after your surgery. Even if your job requires you to do any heavy lifting, now is not the time to do so.
No Hard or Crunchy Foods
As satisfying as foods like popcorn, carrots, nuts, or caramels can be, it is best to avoid them while recovering from your oral surgery. Too much pressure while you’re chewing can interfere with the healing process. Stick to soft foods, as it will give you and your jaw muscles a break.
No Alcohol
It’s best not to drink alcohol after your oral surgery, as it can interfere with or slow down the healing process. It’s also best to avoid alcohol if you’re taking any medication, as it may interfere with its efficacy.
No Smoking
After your surgery, try to wait 72 hours before you smoke. Smoking will impact healing negatively and may lead to complications.
Conclusion
Maintaining oral health is integral to keeping your lifestyle comfortable. While taking a trip to your dentist might not be on your priority list, it can prevent you from facing any serious dental emergencies. Make an appointment with your dentist for a check-up or if you’re experiencing any dental issues. If you require oral surgery in Winnipeg, our Dentists offer comprehensive services. Don’t put off those oral health problems. Call today.