Post Surgical Care
Oral Surgery
Post-operative care is crucial after oral surgeries, including tooth extractions and dental implant placements, to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. This care involves managing pain, keeping the surgical site clean, and adhering to specific dietary restrictions to promote recovery and optimal outcomes.
What to expect after Oral Surgery
Numbness: Numbness generally begins to wear off 1 to 2 hours after your procedure. If you had a general anaesthetic, this lasts between 8 to 12 hours. It is best to commence your prescribed painkillers before the effects of the anaesthetic wears off.
Swelling: You may experience swelling around the surgical site. This is normal following surgery and reaches its peak between 48 to 72 hours after surgery. It can last up to 7 days. Applying ice packs to your jaw assists in the reduction of swelling. Use for half an hour at a time in the first 3 days especially. Sleeping with your head elevated (2-3 pillows) will also improve lymph drainage and resolution of the swelling.
Bruising: Some people may experience bruising around the surgical area which may even extend down the neck. Do not be concerned. This will resolve within 7 to 14 days.
Discomfort: Some discomfort after surgery is normal. Please take your medication as prescribed to control any pain. As soon as is comfortable, stop taking the prescription painkillers and “step-down” to Paracetamol (Panadol/Panamax) and/or Ibuprofen (Nurofen).
Stitches: We use dissolvable stitches, which disintegrate within 3 to 14 days. Stitches may be annoying, please do not disturb them by picking at them. If they become loose after 7 days, you may gently pull them out or cut the knots off, using a clean cosmetic pair of scissors.
Bleeding: It is normal to have some blood oozing from the surgical area in the first 12-72 hours. If you experience any further bleeding, roll up some fresh gauze, place it directly over the socket and bite down firmly for 30 minutes. Placing a towel over your pillow on the first night following surgery, will protect your linen by collecting your blood-stained drool.
If you are bleeding heavily or have reacted to any medications, please call your surgeon on the mobile number provided. You may also attend a local Emergency Department or call 000 if you are unable to contact our front desk or your surgeon.
Oral Hygiene
It is important to start brushing your teeth the day after your surgery. Use a soft toothbrush and hold the bristles under hot running water to soften them further. Avoid brushing too vigorously.
Oral hygiene can be supplemented by using a saltwater mouthwash (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of lukewarm water) or Chlorhexidine mouthwash (e.g. Savacol). Rinse gently for 30 seconds every 2 to 3 hours starting the day after surgery. Do not spit it out, rather open your mouth over the basin and let the liquid run out of your mouth gently.
Note: Prolonged use of Savacol can stain the teeth and tongue, so it is best not to use for longer than 14 days.
Sinus Precautions
Sinus precautions are typically required after dental procedures such as the removal of upper teeth (especially the molars), sinus augmentation (sinus lift) procedures, or facial fractures involving the sinus area. These precautions are necessary to prevent complications like sinus infections or communication between the oral cavity and the sinus, which can lead to a sinus perforation or an oroantral fistula.
Key sinus precautions include:
Avoiding blowing your nose forcefully, as it can increase pressure and disrupt healing.
Refraining from sneezing with your mouth closed to prevent pressure buildup.
Avoiding drinking through straws or creating suction in the mouth.
Following any prescribed antibiotic or decongestant regimen to reduce the risk of infection.
These precautions are typically recommended for a period of two weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery and the healing progress.
Diet Advice
Following your surgery it is important that you have adequate nutrition and eat foods that will not interfere with the healing process or cause complications. Many everyday foods can be made softer by mushing, mincing or blending it. It is important to eat several small meals during the day that are rich in protein and energy. You must also ensure that you drink plenty of fluids.
Some suggestions for food to eat are:
Sorbets or Gelato
Pureed or mashed fruits
Jelly
Scrambled eggs
Soft porridge
Pureed soups
Milkshakes, ice creams or yogurt
Pasta
Steamed or boiled vegetables
Custard
Foods to be AVOIDED for at least 10 days are:
Rice and grains including multigrain bread
Seeded vegetables e.g. tomatoes and chili
Seeded fruits e.g. strawberries
Any foods with small particles that may become lodged into the sockets e.g. corn, peas and popcorn
Medications
Your post-operative medication may typically include:
An antibiotic: This should be taken as prescribed with food or fluids. Taking a probiotic 1 hour after taking the antibiotic, can help prevent gut side-effects like diarrhea or thrush.
An anti-inflammatory: This should be taken as prescribed with food or fluids.
A painkiller: Take as prescribed and start reducing the dose once you feel comfortable. Cease taking prescription pain killers and change to normal Panadol as soon as the strong pain has subsided. Do not operate heavy machinery or use sharp instruments whilst on strong painkillers.