Care recommendations after surgical procedures involving the mouth, teeth and jaw may vary according to the type and extent of the procedure and the individual’s clinical condition.
Protecting the wound, maintaining appropriate oral hygiene, following dietary advice and attending review appointments are key considerations after surgery. The information below is general; individual instructions from your dentist take precedence.
After surgery, the area should be protected from trauma. Avoid excessive stretching of the lip or cheek to inspect the wound, and avoid touching the area with the tongue or another object.
If your dentist has placed gauze, use it for the recommended duration and in the manner instructed.
Slight oozing may occur after surgery. You may be advised to avoid suction actions and repeated spitting, which can contribute to bleeding.
Contact your dentist if bleeding restarts or continues more than expected.
Some discomfort or pain may occur after surgery. If medication has been prescribed, use it only as directed.
Contact your dentist if pain cannot be controlled with the prescribed medication or is progressively increasing.
Dietary advice after surgery may vary according to the procedure. Soft foods that do not place pressure on the treatment area may be preferred initially.
You may be advised to avoid very hot foods and foods that could irritate the wound. Using a straw or other actions that create suction may not be appropriate because they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Maintaining oral hygiene after surgery is important, while protecting the surgical area from trauma during the initial period.
When to resume toothbrushing, mouthwash or salt-water rinsing may vary according to the procedure. Follow the advice of the dentist who performed the treatment.
Swelling or mild bruising may occur around the treatment area after surgery. The amount and duration can vary according to the extent of the procedure.
Whether cold or warm application is appropriate, and how it should be used, should be determined individually by your dentist.
You may be advised to avoid strenuous physical activity for a period after surgery. Some procedures can be followed by temporary jaw-muscle stiffness or limited mouth opening.
Because the duration and expected course of symptoms vary according to the procedure, follow your dentist’s review recommendations.
If sutures are present, whether they need to be removed depends on the suture material. Follow your dentist’s advice regarding review appointments and wound care.
General information on this website does not provide specific antibiotic, pain-relief or mouthwash names or dosages.
If medication has been prescribed, use it only according to the prescribed dose and duration.
Individual care after surgery varies according to the procedure. Instructions from the clinician who performed the procedure take precedence over general web information.
The information on this page is provided for general information only and does not replace a clinical examination or diagnosis. Diagnosis and treatment planning may vary from person to person following a clinical examination and any assessments considered necessary.
Information