Oral surgery doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re having wisdom teeth removed, getting dental implants, or undergoing jaw surgery, preparation is key. Knowing what to expect—and how to take care of yourself—can make recovery faster, safer, and more comfortable. Here’s how to get ready before your procedure and take care of yourself after.
Before Your Oral Surgery
✅ Follow Pre-Op Instructions
Your surgical team will provide specific instructions ahead of time. These may include:
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No eating or drinking for at least 6–8 hours before your appointment (if sedation or general anesthesia is planned).
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Stop taking certain medications (only if advised).
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Arrange a ride home, especially if you’ll be under sedation.
Following these instructions exactly helps ensure your safety during surgery.
🧘♂️ Plan to Rest
Take the day off work or school, and avoid planning anything strenuous the day before or after surgery. Having a calm, restful environment will set you up for a smooth recovery.
🧴 Stock Up on Essentials
Before surgery, gather a few key items:
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Ice packs
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Soft foods (like yogurt, smoothies, soup)
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Gauze pads
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Prescribed medications
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Over-the-counter pain relievers (as directed)
This way, you won’t need to run errands while healing.
After Your Oral Surgery
🧊 Manage Swelling and Discomfort
Swelling is normal after oral surgery. To reduce it:
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Apply ice packs to your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, for the first 24–48 hours.
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Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping.
Your oral surgeon will also provide medications to manage pain or inflammation. Take them as directed for best results.
🥣 Stick to Soft Foods
Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods right after surgery. Instead, eat soft, cool items like:
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Applesauce
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Pudding
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Mashed potatoes
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Scrambled eggs
Gradually return to normal foods as you feel comfortable.
🚫 Avoid These Common Mistakes
To protect your healing site:
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Don’t use a straw (this can cause dry socket).
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Avoid smoking or vaping.
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Don’t rinse your mouth vigorously or brush the surgical site immediately.
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Skip heavy exercise for a few days.
Following these precautions can prevent complications and support proper healing.
📞 Know When to Call
It’s normal to experience mild bleeding and swelling. However, contact your oral surgeon if you notice:
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Persistent bleeding after 24 hours
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Signs of infection (fever, pus, increased pain)
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Numbness or tingling that doesn’t go away
Our team at Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery is always available to support you post-procedure.
Trust Our Team for Expert Care
At Eastern Virginia Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we’re committed to your comfort and safety—before, during, and after surgery. If you have questions about an upcoming oral surgery procedure, contact us today or schedule a consultation.
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