Instructions for your procedure
You’ll receive printed instructions specific to your procedure at the time of your surgery. If you need another copy or have a question during recovery, please call our office at (805) 372-2342 and we’ll send them to you directly.
The general recovery guidance below applies to most oral surgery and periodontal procedures.
The first 24 hours: general recovery
Procedure-specific instructions above always take priority. The following is general guidance that applies to most oral surgery and periodontal procedures.
Bite firmly on the gauze
Keep firm pressure on the gauze placed at the surgical site for 30–45 minutes. A small amount of oozing for the first 24 hours is normal; if active bleeding continues, place fresh gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes.
Apply ice to the cheek
For the first 24 hours, apply an ice pack to the outside of the cheek nearest the surgical site for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Ice reduces swelling, which typically peaks at 48–72 hours.
Take medications as prescribed
Begin pain medication before the local anesthesia wears off. Take any prescribed antibiotics or rinses on schedule. Do not skip doses.
Rest with your head elevated
Rest for the remainder of the day. Keep your head elevated on two pillows to minimize swelling. Avoid strenuous activity, lifting, and bending over for 48–72 hours.
Eat soft, cool foods
Stick to soft, cool foods for the first day — yogurt, smoothies, lukewarm soup, applesauce. Do not use straws, do not smoke, and avoid hot liquids for 24 hours, as suction and heat can dislodge the clot and slow healing.
Rinse gently the next day
Starting the day after surgery, rinse gently with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) after meals and at bedtime. Resume brushing other teeth gently; avoid the surgical site for the first few days.
When to call us right away
Call our office at (805) 372-2342 immediately if you experience:
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after 30 minutes of firm pressure with gauze.
- Swelling that worsens after the third day, or that involves the eye, neck, or floor of the mouth.
- Fever above 101°F (38.3°C).
- Pain that suddenly worsens 3–5 days after surgery (possible dry socket).
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or any reaction to medication.
For after-hours emergencies, the office line will direct you to the on-call surgeon.