It’s normal to see a little blood oozing from the site for 24-48 hours after surgery. This oozing should be mostly saliva with just a few traces of blood. If you see significantly more than that, this is excessive bleeding and you should call your doctor. [6] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
The first 24 hours after surgery are very important for the healing process. Brushing your teeth or other cleaning measures may disturb the stitches or interfere with blood clotting, which can prolong healing or cause infection. [8] X Research source
Do not spit the saline rinse out. Instead, gently tilt your head from side to side to allow the water to wash the area, and then tilt your head to the side to allow it to drain.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gently and slowly brush your teeth using small circular motions. [11] X Research source Do not spit out toothpaste for the first few days after your surgery. Spitting could disturb the blood clot that needs to form over the wounded gums. [12] X Research source Instead, use a saltwater rinse or antiseptic mouthwash[13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source to gently rinse your mouth, and then allow the rinse to drain by tilting your head to the side.
When brushing your teeth, remember to also brush your tongue in order to remove food particles and bacteria, which could enter the wounded gums and cause an infection. [14] X Research source
See your doctor immediately if you experience problems swallowing or breathing, have a fever, see pus near the surgery site or in your nose, or have swelling that worsens. [15] X Research source
Make a salt solution by dissolving 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8 oz glass of warm water. Gently swish around a mouthful of the saline solution for 30 seconds. Don’t spit it out: tilt your head to the side and allow the water to drain. This will avoid disturbing the empty tooth socket. Rinse with the salt water after every meal to help clear out debris in your mouth. You can also use a mouthwash to rinse your mouth if it doesn’t contain alcohol, which can irritate your surgery site.
Your doctor may prescribe the irrigator only on the lower extraction sites. Make sure to follow his or her instructions. You can use the simple saline solution to fill the irrigator. Make sure to get the tip of the irrigator close to the surgery site flush it out. You can also use it to flush out your teeth. This may be slightly painful, but keeping your mouth and the surgery area clean will help reduce the chance of infection or dry socket.
Avoid caffeinated and carbonated beverages during the first day. Avoid alcohol for at least a week after surgery.
In the first day post-op, eat foods like yogurt and applesauce, which won’t irritate your mouth or get lodged in your teeth, which could cause infection. Soft oatmeal or cream of wheat are other good options. Avoid, hard, chewy, brittle, very hot or spicy foods that might irritate the surgery site or get lodged in your teeth, making the conditions ripe for infection. Rinse with warm salt water after every meal for the first week following surgery.
Consuming tobacco following oral surgery can delay healing and also increases your risk for complications such as infection. If you smoke, wait at least 72 hours to have a cigarette. If you chew tobacco, don’t use it for at least a week.
Take NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These will help alleviate some of the swelling associated with the surgery. You can also use acetaminophen, but this does not manage inflammation. Your doctor may prescribe a pain medication if over the counter pain relief doesn’t work for you.
The swelling usually goes away after 2-3 days. Patient should relax and avoid strenuous activity or exercise until swelling resolves.
