If your dentist finds that oral surgery is needed, there are several steps where some pain may be experienced. Sometimes, after minor oral surgery, you may have pain, bleeding, and swelling. Proper care after oral surgery will help your mouth heal quickly and cleanly.
Because your oral surgeon will also use anesthesia during the procedure, you shouldn’t feel pain beyond the vibrations of the drill and some pressure. Following the procedure is when you will notice some pain and discomfort.
If You Have Pain:
Once the anesthetic wears off, feeling some pain is normal. You might have the most pain in the first 24 to 48 hours after your surgery. Some soreness or discomfort at the site of the surgery may last for 3 to 5 days. The amount of discomfort is different from one person to another and from one operation to another.
What To Do:
Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe medication. Tell your dentist or oral surgeon about any other prescription medicines or herbal supplements you are taking. Take the medication exactly as your dentist or oral surgeon and pharmacist have instructed.
It is important to rest. If you are up and about, you may feel more discomfort. Call your dentist or oral surgeon if the pain does not get any better within 48 hours or at any time if you think there is a problem.
Warning Signs
If you have any of the following problems after oral surgery, call your dentist or oral surgeon right away:
- You are bleeding a lot and it has been 4 hours, or longer, since your surgery.
- You have the feeling that you are going to throw up.
- You are throwing up.
- You have a fever.
- You have pain that does not get any better, and it has been 1 full day or longer since your surgery.
- Your swelling is still getting worse, and it has been 2 days or longer since your surgery.
The most important thing to keep in mind is to take your dentist’s recommendations to heart. Oral surgery has an impressive success rate, but the success of the procedure also depends on you. Make sure to make note of all the recommendations your dentists make, such as sticking to soft foods for the correct amount of time.