Post-Surgical Care Instructions

Following dental surgery (such as tooth extractions, dental implants, bone or gum grafts, or gum surgery), it is normal to experience some temporary discomfort and swelling. The information below will help you heal comfortably and safely.

Discomfort & Pain Control

It is normal to feel soreness or mild to moderate pain after surgery. This is usually felt around the surgical area or in the jaw joint.

  • We commonly recommend Ibuprofen (Advil) 800 mg, taken three times a day, if you are able to take it.

  • Ibuprofen works best when taken regularly for the first 2 days, even if discomfort is mild, as it helps reduce swelling and bruising.

  • You may safely combine Ibuprofen with Acetaminophen (Tylenol) to improve pain control.

  • Take your medication before the numbness wears off, then continue as directed.

  • Drink a full glass of water (8 oz) with each dose to prevent stomach upset and stay hydrated.

If stronger pain medication is prescribed:

  • Avoid driving, operating machinery, or making important decisions.

  • Do NOT drink alcohol while taking prescription pain medication.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics may be prescribed to help prevent infection.

  • In some cases, you may be asked to take the first dose before surgery.

  • Take the medication exactly as prescribed and finish the entire course.

  • Antibiotics may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills — please consult your physician if this applies to you.

  • Probiotics may help reduce stomach or digestive side effects. Take them 2 hours after your antibiotic dose.

  • Amoxicillin may be taken with food. Other antibiotics may need to be taken on an empty stomach — always follow the prescription instructions.

Continue all your regular medications unless you are specifically instructed otherwise.

Bleeding

Some light bleeding or oozing is normal for up to 24 hours after surgery.

  • Avoid spitting, using straws, or vigorous rinsing.

  • If bleeding continues, place moist gauze or a tea bag over the area and apply firm pressure for 10–20 minutes.

  • If bleeding does not stop, please contact our office.

Swelling & Bruising

Swelling is normal and may increase for 3–5 days, sometimes appearing worse in the morning. Bruising can also occur.

  • Apply an ice pack to the surgical area immediately:

    • 20 minutes on / 20 minutes off

    • For 6–8 hours, ideally up to 24 hours

  • Do NOT apply heat, as this can increase swelling.

Sutures (Stitches)

We typically use absorbable sutures to help stabilize the area and promote healing.

  • Some sutures may still need removal after 1–2 weeks.

  • Avoid touching or pulling on the sutures.

Diet & Oral Hygiene

  • Be careful while numb to avoid biting your lip, cheek, or tongue.

  • Eat a soft diet and drink plenty of fluids for the next 3–4 days.

  • Ideal drinks include water, sports drinks, and protein shakes.

  • Avoid hard, sharp, or crunchy foods (chips, nuts, popcorn).

  • If possible, chew on the opposite side of the surgical area for 1–2 weeks.

Oral Care

  • Use the prescribed mouth rinse 2–3 times daily, starting the day after surgery.

  • Rinse gently — do not swish forcefully.

  • Warm salt water rinses may begin 24 hours after surgery.

  • Brush and floss normally, avoiding the surgical area, unless directed otherwise.

Physical Activity

Avoid strenuous exercise for 2–3 days after surgery. Rest helps reduce bleeding and promotes healing.

Smoking

Smoking significantly delays healing and increases complications.

  • Do NOT smoke until sutures are removed.

  • Healing outcomes are much better in non-smokers.

Alcohol

  • Avoid alcohol until sutures are removed.

  • Limit alcohol intake for several weeks afterward to support healing.

  • Alcohol should never be combined with pain medications.

Important “Do NOTs”

For the next several days, do NOT:

  • Smoke

  • Spit

  • Use straws

  • Rinse forcefully

  • Drink carbonated beverages

  • Use oral irrigators (Waterpik)

  • Create suction in your mouth

Do NOT attempt to look closely at the surgical area for at least two weeks, as this may disrupt healing or loosen sutures.

Best advice: Leave the surgical site alone as much as possible — it will heal better.