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Post-Operative Care

Oral Surgery Post-Operative Instructions

Your comfort and recovery are our main concern. After undergoing your oral surgery, it will be necessary for you to strictly adhere to these guidelines to ensure your utmost comfort and to avoid any unnecessary problems during the course of your recovery process.

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AFTER YOUR SURGERY

Post-Operative Care, Step by Step

01

Immediately After Surgery

  • After surgery, you will likely feel numbness, light bleeding, and swelling, all of which are normal.
  • Chew softly on the gauze that has been placed in your surgical site for 30 to 45 minutes.
  • Avoid touching your surgical site.
  • Do not rinse your mouth or spit forcefully for the first 24 hours.
  • Rest and avoid physical activity for the remainder of the day.
02

Bleeding

  • Some bleeding or slight oozing is expected for the first 24 hours.
  • If bleeding continues, place a clean gauze pad over the area and bite down for another 30 minutes.
  • Keep your head elevated.
  • Avoid smoking, spitting, or using straws, as these can worsen bleeding.

If bleeding becomes excessive or does not stop, please contact our office immediately.

03

Swelling

  • Swelling is a natural response and typically peaks within 48–72 hours.
  • Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
  • After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses if needed.
04

Pain Management

  • Some discomfort is expected after surgery.
  • Take prescribed medications as directed.
  • You may use Ibuprofen (Advil) unless otherwise instructed.
  • Avoid aspirin, as it can increase bleeding.

Take your first dose of pain medication before the numbness wears off for better comfort.

05

Diet

Recommended foods

  • Yogurt
  • Applesauce
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Smoothies (without straws)
  • Scrambled eggs

Avoid

  • Hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods
  • Alcohol
  • Using straws (can cause dry socket)

Stick to soft, easy-to-chew foods during the first few days. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

06

Oral Hygiene

  • Keeping your mouth clean is important — but be gentle.
  • Do not rinse for the first 24 hours.
  • After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) 2–3 times daily.
  • Brush your teeth carefully, avoiding the surgical area.
07

Activity

  • Limit physical activity for the first 24–48 hours.
  • Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, or strenuous activity.
  • Resume normal activity gradually as you feel comfortable.
08

Sutures (Stitches)

  • Some sutures dissolve on their own within 7–10 days.
  • If non-dissolving sutures were placed, you will be scheduled for removal.
09

Follow-Up Care

  • Healing times vary depending on the procedure and individual health.
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments.
  • Follow all personalized instructions provided by your doctor.
WARNING SIGNS

When to Call Us — Right Away

Possible complications — contact our office if you experience:

  • Severe or increasing pain after a few days
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Swelling that worsens after 3 days
  • Fever or chills
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Call: (203) 327-7498

95 Morgan Street, Suite 1A
Stamford, CT 06905

Call Now

When to Contact Us

Call Stamford Dental Studio if you experience severe or increasing pain, excessive bleeding, significant swelling, fever, or any other unusual concern after your treatment.

Our office is located at 95 Morgan Street, Suite 1A, Stamford, CT. Call (203) 327-7498 to request an appointment with Dr. Joshua Matatov.

Stamford Dental Studio

Welcome to Stamford Dental Studio. Our passionate team is fully committed to delivering personalized, top-tier dental care that you genuinely deserve.

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95 Morgan Street, Suite 1A Stamford, CT 06905

Holisticdentalstudio@gmail.com

(203) 327-7498

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