Undergoing oral surgery—whether it's wisdom tooth extraction, dental implants, or gum surgery—is a significant step toward improving your oral health. But the surgery itself is just one part of the process. How well you recover depends heavily on the care you take after leaving the dental chair.

Proper post-operative care ensures a faster and smoother recovery, reducing the risk of complications such as infection, dry socket, or delayed healing. To help guide you through the healing process, we’ve compiled a list of essential dos and don’ts after oral surgery.

DO: Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions

This may seem obvious, but the most important step you can take is to follow the specific instructions provided by your dental surgeon. These are tailored to your individual procedure and health condition.

Dr Anand Suresh and the team at Taunton Dentistry & Implants provide each patient with personalized aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing.

DO: Rest and Take It Easy

After oral surgery, your body needs time to recover. Avoid strenuous activities such as exercising, heavy lifting, or bending over for at least 48–72 hours post-surgery. Physical exertion can increase bleeding or dislodge the blood clot that forms over the surgical site, potentially leading to complications like dry socket.

Rest with your head elevated and allow your body to do the work of healing.

DO: Use Cold Compresses

Swelling is a common side effect after oral surgery. Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the surgical site during the first 24 hours can help reduce swelling and numb discomfort. Use the compress in 15-minute intervals—15 minutes on, then 15 minutes off.

DO: Maintain Good Oral Hygiene—Gently

Keeping your mouth clean is essential, but you’ll need to do so carefully. Rinse with a warm saltwater solution after 24 hours (unless instructed otherwise), especially after eating, to reduce the risk of infection. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the surgical site, and do not use mouthwash containing alcohol.

DO: Eat Soft, Nutritious Foods

Your body needs nutrients to heal, but you’ll need to modify your diet. Choose soft, non-irritating foods like:

• Mashed potatoes
• Yogurt
• Smoothies (without a straw)
• Scrambled eggs
• Applesauce
• Broths and soups (lukewarm only)

Avoid spicy, hot, acidic, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area or cause injury.

DO: Take Medications as Prescribed

If you’ve been given antibiotics or pain medication, take them as directed—even if you feel fine. Pain management and infection prevention are crucial during the initial healing phase.

DON’T: Smoke or Use Tobacco Products

Smoking and using tobacco products delays healing, increases the risk of dry socket, and can lead to serious complications, including infection. If you smoke, it's essential to avoid doing so for at least 72 hours after surgery—ideally longer. If you're considering quitting altogether, this could be the perfect time.

DON’T: Use Straws or Spit Forcefully

Suction or forceful spitting can dislodge the protective blood clot from the surgical site, leading to dry socket—a painful condition that delays healing. Drink directly from a cup and gently wipe your mouth instead of spitting.

DON’T: Consume Alcohol

Alcohol can interfere with medications and slow down the healing process. It can also irritate the surgical site. Avoid alcohol for at least 48–72 hours, or as directed by your dentist.

DON’T: Touch the Surgical Site

It can be tempting to check the site with your tongue or fingers, but doing so can introduce bacteria and delay healing. Keep your hands away from your mouth, and avoid poking or prodding the area.

DON’T: Skip Meals

Even if your appetite is low, your body needs energy and nutrients to recover. Skipping meals can weaken your immune system and slow the healing process. Stick to small, frequent meals if needed, and focus on foods rich in vitamins and minerals.

What to Expect During Recovery

Every patient heals differently, but here are some general timelines:

• First 24 hours: Bleeding and mild swelling are normal. Follow strict rest and hygiene protocols.
• Day 2–3: Swelling may peak. Continue cold compresses and soft foods.
• Day 4–7: Swelling should begin to subside. Gradually reintroduce normal oral hygiene.
• 1–2 weeks: Most healing is complete. If you have stitches, they may dissolve or be removed.

If you experience any of the following, contact your dentist immediately:

• Persistent or worsening pain after several days
• Fever or signs of infection
• Prolonged bleeding
• Swelling that worsens instead of improving
• Bad taste or odor from the surgical site

Trust Your Healing to the Experts

At Taunton Dentistry & Implants, Dr Anand Suresh and his experienced team are dedicated to ensuring not just successful surgeries, but also stress-free recoveries. From pre-operative preparation to personalised aftercare, we’re with you every step of the way.

If you're scheduled for oral surgery—or recovering from one—and have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your comfort and health are our top priorities.

Book Your Consultation Today with Dr Anand Suresh at Taunton Dentistry & Implants.

A smoother recovery begins with expert care.