Surgical Instructions for a Smooth Recovery

We want your surgery and recovery to go as smoothly as possible. Below are simple guidelines to help you before and after your procedure. Please read carefully and call our office if you have any questions or concerns.

Before Your Surgery

  • Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at least eight hours before your appointment.

  • Avoid smoking for at least 12 hours before surgery. Quitting sooner will help you heal better.

  • A responsible adult must come with you to the appointment, stay during the surgery, and drive you home.

  • Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours after anesthesia.

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up.

  • Remove contact lenses, jewelry, dentures, and avoid heavy makeup, lipstick, or nail polish.

  • If you feel unwell, have a cold, upset stomach, fever, or flu-like symptoms, let us know right away.

  • If you take daily medications, ask your doctor whether any adjustments are needed before surgery.

After Wisdom Tooth Removal

  • Keep the gauze pad in place for about 30 minutes, then remove it gently.

  • Do not rinse, touch, or disturb the area—this helps protect the blood clot that starts healing.

  • Begin your prescribed pain medication as soon as the numbness wears off.

  • Rest for the remainder of the day. Resume normal activity when you feel ready.

  • Apply an ice pack on your face where surgery was done during the first 36 hours.

  • Some bleeding is normal. If it continues, bite gently on a fresh gauze pad or a moist black tea bag. Call us if bleeding is heavy or does not slow down.

  • Swelling is common, especially in the first two to three days. Use ice at first, then switch to warm compresses after 36 hours.

After a Single Tooth Extraction

  • Bite gently but firmly on gauze for 30 to 45 minutes right after surgery to help form a clot.

  • Avoid rinsing, smoking, drinking alcohol, using straws, or brushing near the site for 72 hours.

  • Take it easy and avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours.

  • Use ice packs to reduce swelling and take pain medicine as directed.

  • Finish all antibiotics prescribed, even if you feel better.

  • Drink plenty of fluids and stick to soft, nutritious foods until you feel comfortable eating normally.

  • Resume brushing and flossing gently after the first 24 hours.

  • Call our office if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, swelling lasting more than a few days, or reactions to medication.

After Multiple Tooth Extractions

  • Some bleeding is expected. Bite on gauze for 30 minutes, or use a moist tea bag if needed.

  • Keep your head slightly elevated, avoid hot drinks, and limit activity to reduce bleeding.

  • Apply ice during the first 36 hours, then use moist heat after that to help swelling go down.

  • Take prescribed pain medication as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help with mild discomfort.

  • Complete the full course of antibiotics unless you are told otherwise.

  • Drink plenty of fluids, at least six glasses the first day. Stick to soft foods and slowly return to your normal diet.

  • Do not rinse your mouth on the first day. Starting the next day, rinse gently with warm salt water several times a day, especially after meals.

  • You may notice swelling, bruising, jaw stiffness, sore throat, or dry lips—these are common and should improve in a few days.

  • If you received immediate dentures, see your dentist within 24 to 48 hours for adjustments.

After Dental Implant Surgery

  • Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the surgical site for the first day.

  • Light bleeding is normal for up to 24 hours. If it continues, apply gentle pressure with gauze or a moist tea bag. Call us if bleeding is heavy.

  • Apply ice packs to the cheek near the surgery area during the first 36 hours to reduce swelling.

  • Stick to soft or cool foods and liquids for the first day. Avoid hot meals. Slowly return to your regular diet as you feel able.

  • Begin pain medication as soon as the numbing wears off. Take Tylenol, ibuprofen, or prescribed medications exactly as directed.

  • Avoid alcohol and driving while taking stronger prescription medications.

  • Take all antibiotics as directed to prevent infection.

  • Use any prescribed mouth rinse as directed. Warm salt water rinses are also helpful starting the day after surgery.

  • Avoid strenuous activities until you feel fully recovered.

  • Do not wear dentures, partials, or flippers for at least 10 days unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Helpful Reminders

  • Healing takes time. Swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort are common and usually improve within a few days.

  • Follow your medication and care instructions closely.

  • Always finish your prescribed antibiotics.

  • Call us if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, or anything that does not feel normal.