Whether you need to have a tooth extraction or you are faced with a dental implant placement, you might be nervous about the prospect of undergoing oral surgery. However, if you work with an experienced dentist and work hard at home to recover, that procedure may help you to restore your chewing ability while improving the look of your smile. Here are three tips for recovering from oral surgery.
1. Plan to Rest Oftentimes, people assume that a simple oral surgery won't be much to recover from, since most incisions are small. However, some varieties of oral surgery can take more of a toll than most people realize, especially since changes to the mouth can impact the way you eat, drink, sleep, and talk.
In general, you should plan to rest for a minimum of two days after oral surgery. Additionally, you should refrain from vigorous exercise for 2-3 days following your operation, since the additional blood flow could cause complications.
If you have an oral surgery planned, do what you can to take time off from your normal daily routine. Talk with your employer about using some sick days, and ask friends and neighbors if they can help you with small children.
2. Stay Hydrated Although it may not seem vital to your recovery, drinking enough water can really contribute to proper wound healing. When the oral tissues are hydrated, circulation improves, speeding nutrient recovery and allowing areas to heal quickly and efficiently.
After your oral surgery, keep a water bottle or glass handy, and focus on consuming plenty of water. However, you should avoid using straws after oral surgery, which can knock loose protective blood clots and contribute to infections such as dry socket. Ask your physician how much water you should be drinking a day based on your body weight, and track your consumption to fall in line with those recommendations.
3. Take Medications On A Schedule After your oral surgery, your dentist may prescribe antibiotics or pain medications to stave off infections and discomfort. While many people are tempted to only take medicines when they feel a pressing need, taking prescribed drugs on a schedule can help you to prevent complications. Keep a medication journal after your oral surgery to record what you took and when so you can easily determine if it is time for another dose.
Although it can seem intimidating to be faced with an oral surgery, by working with your dentist and doing what you can at home to encourage healing, you will be able to get back to work in no time. During the recovery process, don't forget to keep in touch with your dentist to let them know about changes you experience. By staying on top of new issues, you can prevent infections and other complications, paving the way for a healthier smile.
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