Question 1

What should I expect after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Rest with your head elevated for the first evening. Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours. Bite down gently on the gauze provided for 30 minutes to control bleeding, replacing as required. Use cold packs on the outside of the face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, during the first day.

Question 2

How long is recovery from oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Recovery typically takes 3-5 days for initial healing. Expect mild swelling and limited mouth opening during this period. Swelling often peaks around 48-72 hours after surgery before gradually easing. Full healing may take 1-2 weeks depending on the procedure.

Question 3

When can I eat after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Stick to cool, soft foods for the first 48 hours (yoghurt, soups, smoothies with a spoon). Introduce soft, non-chewy foods as comfort allows. Avoid nuts, seeds, or crunchy textures for a week. Stay hydrated with water; avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours or as instructed.

Question 4

How do I control bleeding after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Slight oozing is normal for 12-24 hours. If bleeding increases, place firm pressure with clean gauze for another 30 minutes. Avoid excessive spitting, rinsing, or using straws for the first day to prevent dislodging the clot. Contact the clinic if bleeding does not reduce after repeated pressure applications.

Question 5

What is dry socket and how can I prevent it?

Accepted Answer

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot is dislodged from the extraction site. Do not smoke or vape for at least one week; nicotine dramatically increases dry socket risk. Begin warm salt-water rinses 24 hours after surgery - gently swish after meals to keep the area clean. Persistent throbbing pain or a foul taste may indicate dry socket - contact the clinic for review.

Question 6

When should I contact the clinic after oral surgery?

Accepted Answer

Contact the clinic if you experience: bleeding that does not settle after applying pressure for one hour, severe swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, persistent fever above 38°C or signs of infection, or numbness that worsens or does not improve over several days.

Post-operative instructions

Clinic contact numbers

Immediate care (first 24 hours)

Bleeding control

Swelling & bruising

Pain management

Infection prevention & dry socket

Oral hygiene

Sutures & follow-up

Diet & hydration

When to contact the clinic

Clinic contact numbers