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Post Operation Dental Rules

There are several reasons why you may be about to undergo oral surgery, such as dental implants, gum treatments or even routine removal of your wisdom teeth.  Regardless of the reason, here are some important  post op steps to take that can help the healing process proceed normally:

  • dentist at workTake things slowly for the first few days after your surgery. The body requires rest in order to start healing.  If you feel you need to lie down, prop your head up with pillows to keep swelling and bleeding to a minimum.  You should also do this for the first night after surgery.  It’s very important that you do not engage in strenuous activity during this period.
  • If you have a lot of swelling, you can apply an ice pack for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce it.
  • Eating is going to be difficult for a little while.  After all of the bleeding has stopped after your surgery, you can start eating soft foods and taking in liquids.  Go for soups, yogurt, milkshakes, smoothies and mashed potatoes.  Also, be sure to stay away from hot foods or drinks until the numbness wears off.
  • Especially after you’ve eaten, be sure to keep your mouth clean.  Your dentist may tell you not to rinse for the first 24 hours.  After that, you should gently rinse your mouth using warm salt water.
  • Take all medications as prescribed and make sure you finish all of the scheduled medications.
  • As you slowly start eating normally again, be sure to follow a balanced diet. Foods that are particularly rich in vitamins A and C contribute to the healing process.  You may even want to take a vitamin C supplement to encourage a timely recovery.
  • Stay away from hard or crunchy foods for six to eight weeks.
  • Although brushing and flossing is important, wait until your dentist tells you it’s ok.  Once you do start again, be very careful at the site of the surgery.
  • Stay away from cigarettes and alcohol for at least 24 hours.

If you experience any of the following, give DC Dental a call right away:

  • You have excessive bleeding more than 4 hours after your surgery.
  • You experience nausea and vomiting.
  • You start running a fever.
  • You have extreme pain that’s not improving after 24 hours.
  • You experience swelling that’s getting worse after two days.

After surgery of any kind, it’s important to follow all of your doctor’s instructions carefully and get plenty of rest.  Follow these tips to encourage a speedy recovery.  

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