Oral Surgery Recovery Timeline: What You Need to Know

Immediate Aftermath: 24 Hours Post-Surgery

The first 24 hours after your surgery are critical for your recovery. It's normal to experience some discomfort and swelling. Rest is important during this period, and you should avoid strenuous activities.
It's also crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding diet and medication. Generally, you should stick to soft foods and avoid hot drinks. Take your prescribed medications as directed to manage pain and prevent infection.

Early Recovery: First Week Post-Surgery

During the first week after surgery, it's normal for the swelling and discomfort to peak around the second or third day before gradually subsiding. Continue to eat soft foods and keep up with your medication regimen.
Good oral hygiene is essential during this period. You can usually resume gentle brushing after 24 hours, but avoid the surgical area. Rinsing with warm salt water can also help keep the area clean.

Mid Recovery: Second Week Post-Surgery

By the second week, the majority of the swelling and discomfort should have subsided. You may start to incorporate more solid foods into your diet, but continue to avoid hard, crunchy foods that could irritate the surgical area.
Keep up with your oral hygiene routine and continue to avoid strenuous activities. If you have stitches that need to be removed, this will typically be done during the second week.

Late Recovery: Third Week Post-Surgery and Beyond

By the third week, you should be feeling much better. Most people can return to their normal diet and routine by this time. However, complete healing of the surgical area can take several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the surgery and your overall health.
It's important to continue practicing good oral hygiene and attend any follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure everything is healing as expected.

Factors That Can Affect Your Recovery

It's important to note that everyone's recovery timeline can be different, influenced by factors such as the complexity of the surgery, your overall health, and how well you adhere to post-operative care instructions.
Smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions can delay healing. It's crucial to discuss these factors with your doctor before surgery to ensure you have a realistic understanding of your recovery timeline.

Get the Best Care in Cranston

If you're in Cranston and need oral surgery, trust the expertise of Dr. Ray English at the RI Oral Surgery & Implant Center. We are committed to providing outstanding care and will guide you through each step of the process, from the initial consultation to your recovery. Contact us today at (401) 732-1188 to schedule an appointment.