Have you recently had dental surgery? Whether it was the placement of Dental implants, the removal of wisdom teeth, gum or bone grafts, recovery requires very specific care to ensure smooth and uncomplicated healing.
At Clínica Dr. Pedro Coelho, in Oeiras, we support patients daily in the post-surgical phase. In this article, we have gathered the main recommendations we provide after dental surgery, simple practices that make all the difference to the success of the treatment.
Uma cirurgia dentária é um procedimento médico que envolve a manipulação dos dentes, gengivas, maxilares ou outras estruturas da boca.
Dental surgery includes any invasive procedure performed in the oral cavity under local anaesthetic. It can range from simple extractions to the placement of implants, bone surgeries, grafts, among others.
Each intervention has its particularities, but the principles of recovery are transversal.
Post-dental surgery instructions: what to do (and avoid)
On the day of surgery, only cold foods and liquids.
Opt for juices, milkshakes, yoghurts, ice cream, or jelly. The next day, start introducing soft, cold, or room-temperature foods. Avoid hot, hard, or chewy foods.
2. Get ready for some swelling
It's normal for the face to become swollen, especially between the 2nd and 3rd day. Bruising may also occur. Applying Traumeel ointment Or Arnica stick helps to reduce these symptoms.
3. Apply ice for the first 48-72 hours
Apply ice packs (wrapped in a thin towel) for 10-15 minutes, with 30-minute breaks in between. Repeat several times a day.
4. Slight bleeding is normal
Should a small amount of blood appear, particularly in the first few hours, do not be alarmed. If the bleeding is persistent or heavy, please contact the clinic.
5. Avoid spitting
Spitting can stimulate bleeding. Swallow your saliva naturally, even if there is a trace of blood.
6. Do not gargle for at least 1 week
Gargling can harm clot formation and delay healing. If you need to rinse your mouth, do so gently with brushing.
7. After 48 hours, begin saline washes.
Mix a glass of warm water with a teaspoon of salt and gently rinse the treated area, 3 times a day.
8. Sleep with your head raised higher
Use an extra pillow to prevent increased swelling. Try not to sleep on the side of the surgery.
9. Avoid sun and strenuous physical activity for 1 week
Sun exposure and intense physical activity can aggravate inflammation and compromise healing.
10. Brush your teeth with extra care
Continue your usual oral hygiene, but without touching the surgical area. Use a soft brush and avoid traumatising the gum.
11. Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Both interfere directly with the healing process and increase the risk of infection. The ideal is to abstain completely for at least 7 days.
12. Strictly follow the prescribed medication
Even if you feel well, do not stop taking your medication without your doctor's instruction. Painkillers and antibiotics are essential at this stage.
13. If in doubt, please contact us
If something seems strange or you're experiencing abnormal discomfort, don't hesitate. It's better to clarify early than to risk preventable complications.
Ready to recover safely? We're here to help
Following these directions after your dental surgery is essential for a safe, speedy, and complication-free recovery. These recommendations are designed to ensure everything goes better than expected and that your smile shines again, with health and confidence.
At Clínica Dr. Pedro Coelho, in Oeiras, we are available to support you through all stages of your treatment.
Do you have any questions about your post-operative care, or are you considering having dental surgery?
Get in touch with us, we're here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does recovery from dental surgery take?
In most cases, the discomfort will significantly reduce after 3 to 5 days. However, complete healing may take up to 2 weeks or more, depending on the procedure.
Can I go back to the gym a few days later?
No. You must avoid any physical exertion for at least 7 days. Exercise can increase blood pressure and cause bleeding.
Does smoking affect dental surgery recovery?
Yes, quite negatively. Tobacco compromises tissue oxygenation and can cause infections or implant rejection, if applicable.
