08 May Oral Surgery Aftercare: Minimizing Your Discomfort
Do you have an upcoming oral surgery? You likely have questions – especially about what to expect after the procedure. Rest assured that if your dentist or orthodontist has recommended that you receive treatment from our oral surgeons, you will receive the highest quality care and the individualized attention that you deserve. Whether you come to our practice for wisdom tooth removal, dental implant placement, or jaw surgery, we will guide you through the treatment process every step of the way.
Before Treatment
Before your procedure, it is important to follow all pre-operative instructions precisely. Our team will provide you with detailed information on what to do to prepare for treatment. Before treatment, be sure to inform our team of your current medication regimen, what medical conditions you have, and if you have any known allergies.
After Oral Surgery
After your surgery, there are steps you can take to minimize discomfort. You will be provided with a packet of instructions on what to do after treatment. These instructions will vary based on the nature of your condition and the type of treatment you received. When it comes to managing discomfort, moderate pain is easily alleviated by over the counter medications such as Motrin or Tylenol. If you are given prescription pain medication, be sure to take the medication exactly as directed. In addition to pain medication, some patients may be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection. Like other prescriptions, antibiotics should be taken exactly as directed.
You might also benefit from hot and cold compresses. For example, within in the 24 hours of a tooth extraction, applying cold compresses to the sides of your face or jaw may help reduce swelling and discomfort. Some bleeding is normal after oral surgery. Bleeding may be controlled with sterile gauze.
We recommend that patients read all instructions thoroughly and call our practice if any questions arise. To schedule an appointment with our team of oral surgeons, call Great River Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at your convenience.