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POST-OPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

Caring for Yourself After Oral Surgery

Follow these general post-operative instructions unless you were given specific instructions for your procedure. These guidelines will help you heal properly, minimize discomfort, and prevent complications after surgery.

Pain Management

  • Take 600 mg of ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®) and 650 mg of acetaminophen (Tylenol® regular strength) every 6 hours on a regular schedule for the first few days, even if you feel mild discomfort.
  • If you were prescribed a stronger pain medication, use it only as needed for breakthrough pain, in addition to your scheduled ibuprofen and acetaminophen.

Bleeding

  • Avoid swishing, spitting, rinsing vigorously, or using straws for 72 hours after surgery.
  • Bite firmly on gauze for 30 minutes, then remove and replace it as needed until bleeding slows.
  • If bleeding continues, try biting on a wet tea bag—the tannins help promote clotting.
  • Do not sleep with gauze or any object in your mouth.

Swelling and Bruising

  • Swelling and bruising often peak 48–72 hours after surgery.
  • Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off during the first 48 hours. Always place a towel or cloth between your skin and the ice pack.
  • Keep your head elevated with extra pillows while resting or sleeping for the first two days.

Diet

  • Begin with cool liquids right after surgery. Avoid hot beverages for the first 24 hours.
  • Do not drink carbonated beverages for one week.
  • Progress to a soft or “mushy” diet (such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and eggs) the day after surgery, and continue for several days.
  • Return to your normal diet once pain has subsided, but avoid hard, spicy, crunchy, or sharp foods for two additional weeks.

Stitches

  • Most stitches will dissolve on their own within a few days unless otherwise specified. This is normal and does not require intervention.

Sinus Precautions

If your procedure involved or was near your upper jaw:

  • Do not blow your nose for 2 weeks.
  • If you need to sneeze, do so with your mouth open to avoid pressure on the healing area.

Oral Hygiene

  • Do not smoke. Smoking delays healing and increases the risk of infection and dry socket.
  • Resume brushing and flossing the day after surgery but be gentle around the surgical site.
  • Begin gentle warm salt water rinses (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 oz of warm water) after meals and with your regular brushing routine starting the day after surgery.
  • If you were given a syringe, begin using it 5 days after surgery. Fill it with warm salt water and gently rinse the surgical site twice daily until no debris remains.

Activity

  • Avoid strenuous physical activity for a few days following surgery.
  • Gradually resume normal exercise and daily activities as your comfort improves.

Antibiotics

  • If prescribed antibiotics, take the entire course as directed, even if symptoms improve early. This helps prevent infection and supports proper healing.

Questions or Concerns?

If you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, persistent swelling, or any other unusual symptoms, contact Arrow Oral Surgery immediately. Our team is available to help you recover safely and comfortably.