Oral Surgery Basics: What You Need to Know

Thinking about oral surgery can feel nerve‑wracking. Whether it’s a wisdom tooth coming out, a jaw correction, or a dental implant, the basics are pretty simple. Oral surgery is any procedure that a dentist or oral surgeon does inside the mouth or around the jaw. It usually needs local anaesthetic, sometimes sedation, and a short recovery time.

Preparing for Your Oral Surgery

First, get a clear plan from your dentist. Ask what kind of anaesthetic will be used, how long the surgery should take, and what post‑op care you’ll need. Write down any medicines you’re on—especially blood thinners—because they can affect bleeding.

On the day before the surgery, skip heavy meals but keep a light snack if you’re allowed food. Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol. If you’ve been told to stop certain meds, follow that advice exactly. Having a friend or family member to drive you home is a good idea if you get sedation.

Pack a small recovery kit: soft foods like yogurt or mashed potatoes, a bottle of water, any prescribed pain meds, and an ice pack. Your mouth will be sore, so cold compresses on the cheek can keep swelling down for the first 24‑48 hours.

Recovery Tips for a Smooth Healing

After the surgery, follow the dentist’s instructions step by step. Keep the gauze in place for the first hour to help clot formation. Gently bite down to stop bleeding, but don’t chew on the gauze.

Start with soft foods and avoid anything too hot or spicy for a few days. Rinse your mouth with a warm salt‑water solution (½ teaspoon salt in a cup of water) after meals. This helps keep the site clean without harsh chemicals.

Take pain medication as prescribed, not just when you feel pain. This keeps the pain from building up. If you’re using over‑the‑counter pain relievers, follow the dosage label and don’t mix them with other meds unless a professional says it’s safe.

Rest is key. Try to keep your head elevated with an extra pillow while you sleep; this reduces swelling. Gentle jaw movement, like opening your mouth slowly, can prevent stiffness, but avoid vigorous chewing.

If you notice prolonged bleeding, a fever over 101°F, or severe pain that isn’t helped by meds, call your dentist right away. These signs can mean an infection or a problem with the clot.

Massage therapists can also help after oral surgery. A light neck and shoulder massage eases tension that builds when you’re chewing gently or holding your mouth shut. Just make sure the therapist knows you’ve had oral surgery so they avoid the area around your jaw.

Most people feel back to normal within a week, though full healing of bone or gum tissue can take a few weeks. Keep up with good oral hygiene—brush gently and floss carefully after the first few days.

Remember, oral surgery is a routine part of dental care. By preparing well, following post‑op advice, and listening to your body, you’ll get through it with minimal hassle and be back to smiling soon.