We hope your recovery is smooth and uneventful. As every individual heals differently, we have provided the following instructions and helpful tips as a guide to keep you as comfortable as possible during your recovery.
Local Anaesthetic
Is almost always used, even if treatment is carried out under General Anaesthetic, as it reduces post-operative pain. You will initially be numb and it’s important that you try not to bite or suck your lip or tongue while you can’t feel it.
Bleeding
If you have gone home with gauze packs in your mouth, remove them after 1 hour. Some bleeding may occur afterwards and usually responds well to direct pressure. If bleeding does occur, place clean gauze over the area and apply firm pressure for 1 hour. If bleeding persists, please contact us. It is also common to have some bleeding overnight, and you may notice blood on your pillow. (Tip: place a towel or protective sheet over your pillow to prevent staining.) Sleeping with your head slightly elevated may help reduce this.
Swelling & Bruising
Some swelling Is a normal response and usually reaches its peak 3-4 days following surgery. It varies from person to person and can depend on the complexity of your surgery. Swelling should start to decrease after the third day and resolve by one week. Bruising may occur as the swelling starts to subside; this is not unusual. You can use crushed ice, placed inside the mouth, or icepacks applied adjacent to the surgical sites for the first few days to help reduce both swelling and bruising. Avoid placing ice packs directly on skin.
Discomfort
Pain or discomfort can occur to varying degree, and varies from one person to the next. Initially, it is important to take your pain killers regularly as prescribed. Pain should decrease significantly after 2-3 days reducing the need for pain killers which can gradually be reduced and eventually ceased. A dull ache may persist for at least a few weeks after your surgery. This is normal and is due to muscular soreness following surgery.
Nausea
Feeling nauseated and/or vomiting following oral surgery can occur and may relate to medication or swallowed blood. It is wise to have clear fluids only for the first 12 hours. If nausea or vomiting persists, please contact us.
Diet
Avoid hot food and drinks for the first 24 hours. You may need to start with fluids and soft foods, then gradually return to your normal diet as you feel comfortable. Make sure you drink enough fluids to stay well hydrated.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping up good oral hygiene following your surgery is essential. Brushing your teeth may be difficult in the first days, but preserving is important. Use a small soft toothbrush and be cautious around the surgical site. A child’s toothbrush can be helpful.
Please wait 2 days after your surgery before rinsing your mouth. Rinsing too early and vigorously can cause bleeding or rinse the clot out of the socket. Rinsing after 2 days with a mouthwash is recommended: use a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. This can be done at least 4 times per day to keep the area clean. Ideally after meals and before bed. Cepacol or Savacol rinses may also be used but try not to use Cepacol or Savacol rinses for longer than 10 days, unless otherwise instructed, to avoid staining.
Infection
Whilst infection is uncommon following oral surgery, it can occur. Symptoms may include a delayed increase (3–4 days after surgery) in swelling, discomfort, and/or the presence of discharge. In most cases antibiotics have been prescribed to help prevent infection. It is important to complete the full course, even if you feel well.
Stitches
Dissolving sutures are used in almost all cases. These will begin to dissolve and fall out approximately 5–14 days after surgery. You may notice creamy or grey areas at the surgical site – this is normal healing tissue and not infection. This will gradually disappear as you heal.
Nose Blowing
Please do not blow your nose for 2 weeks following surgery to avoid unnecessary pressure to your sinuses.
Numbness
Tingling or numbness may be present to lip and tongue and is most often resolved with time, as discussed in your initial consultation. If you have any concerns or questions, please contact us to book a review.
Smoking
If you are a smoker, please try to refrain from smoking for at least 5 days after the surgery as smoking increases the risk of infection and dry socket.
Mood
On about the third or fourth day after surgery, you may have mood swings and feel lethargic. This is a normal healing phase following surgery.
Dry Socket (Important)
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot is lost, delaying healing.
Signs (typically 4–6 days after surgery):
- Increasing, severe pain after initial improvement
- Pain spreading to ear or eye
- Bad taste or odour
Prevention:
- Do not smoke
- Avoid rinsing early, straws, and spitting
- Follow oral hygiene instructions carefully
Treatment:
It usually resolves with time, but may require dressing and pain management. Contact us if you suspect this. n about the third or fourth day after surgery, you may have mood swings and feel lethargic. This is a normal healing phase following surgery.
When to Contact Us
Call us if you experience:
- Persistent bleeding
- Increasing swelling or pain after several days
- Fever, discharge, or concerns about healing
After hours: contact your surgeon or attend your nearest emergency department if needed.
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