Discomfort
You may experience mild to moderate pain after surgery for several days. By taking the prescribed medications as directed, your discomfort should be reduced. Under no circumstances should you take Aspirin for pain, since it encourages bleeding. Taking pain medication before pain starts is the most predictable way of having an uneventful and comfortable recovery.
Bleeding
It is normal to experience some amount of bleeding following a dental surgery. Anticipate some pink or straw colour fluid in your mouth (saliva mixed with the blood clot). You may want to place a towel over your pillow the night after surgery to protect your bed linen. Because blood mixes with saliva, it may appear to be of a greater volume than it really is.
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To manage post-operative bleeding, you should avoid:
1. Vigorous rinsing, spitting or using a straw for 24 hours.
2. Alcohol for at least 24 hours.
3. Smoking for at least 24 hours.
4. Vigorous exercise for 48 hours.
5. Eating hard or sharp foods that may further traumatize the wound.
If bleeding is not stopped by biting on wet gauze, apply pressure for 20 minutes with a wet tea bag.
Important: Use black tea only. Do not use herbal tea.
Swelling (Expect at least 48 hours of swelling)
You may experience mild to moderate swelling 2-3 days after surgery. Sleep with an extra pillow under your head for the first night. Some bruising (yellow/blue/purple) may occur and should not alarm you. You may also experience stiffness of the jaw which can be relieved by gentle opening and stretching after surgery.
Temperature
A mild temperature up to 380C is considered normal following surgery, and is a part of the healing process. It should respond to Tylenol. If your temperature is above 380C, or does not lower with Tylenol please contact your doctor.
Rest
After surgery, you should rest as much as possible for 1-2 days to allow your body to heal.