Surgical Instructions for Oral Surgery Patients

Pre-Operative and Post-Operative Care | Archstone Oral & Facial Surgery

At Archstone Oral & Facial Surgery, your safety and successful recovery are our highest priorities. Carefully following your oral surgery instructions reduces complications, promotes proper healing, and ensures the best possible outcome.

Before Oral Surgery: Pre-Operative Instructions

Fasting Guidelines for IV Sedation or General Anesthesia

  • Do not eat or drink anything, including water, for at least 8 hours prior to your appointment.
  • Essential medications may be taken with a small sip of water unless otherwise directed.
  • A responsible adult must accompany you, remain during the procedure, and drive you home.
  • Do not drive, operate machinery, or make important decisions for 24 hours following sedation.

What to Wear on the Day of Surgery

  • Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing
  • Short sleeves for monitoring equipment
  • Flat, stable shoes
  • No jewelry, contact lenses, or facial piercings
  • Avoid heavy makeup or lipstick

Medications and Medical Conditions

  • Continue routine medications unless instructed otherwise.
  • Inform our office if you take blood thinners or diabetic medications.
  • Notify us if you develop illness prior to surgery.
  • Avoid smoking for at least 12 hours before surgery.

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After Oral Surgery: Post-Operative Care Instructions

Managing Bleeding After Oral Surgery

  • Light oozing is normal for the first 24 hours.
  • Bite firmly on gauze for 30–45 minutes.
  • Replace gauze as needed.
  • Avoid spitting, forceful rinsing, or using straws.
  • Contact our office if bleeding becomes heavy.

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Swelling and Inflammation

  • Swelling typically peaks 48–72 hours after surgery.
  • Apply ice packs 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.
  • Keep your head elevated while resting.
  • Warm compresses may be used after 48 hours if recommended.

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Pain Management After Oral Surgery

  • Begin medication before numbness fully wears off.
  • Take medications exactly as prescribed.
  • Avoid alcohol while taking prescription pain medication.
  • Do not drive while under the influence of sedatives.

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Diet After Oral Surgery

  • Begin with soft, cool foods.
  • Stay well hydrated.
  • Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods.
  • Do not use straws for at least 72 hours.
  • Gradually resume normal diet as tolerated.

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Oral Hygiene After Surgery

  • Avoid rinsing or brushing near the surgical site for 24 hours.
  • After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water 3–4 times daily.
  • Resume gentle brushing while avoiding the surgical area.

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Activity Restrictions

  • Avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours.
  • Gradually resume normal activities.
  • Avoid smoking for at least 72 hours.

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Procedure-Specific Recovery Instructions

Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery

  • Use ice packs for the first 36 hours.
  • Begin salt water rinses the day after surgery.
  • Protect the blood clot to prevent dry socket.
  • Contact our office if numbness persists.

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Dental Implant Surgery Aftercare

  • Do not disturb the surgical site on the day of surgery.
  • Take all prescribed antibiotics as directed.
  • Avoid wearing dentures or partials unless instructed.
  • Maintain excellent oral hygiene around the implant site.

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Tooth Extraction Recovery

  • Follow bleeding control instructions carefully.
  • Avoid smoking and suction motions.
  • Maintain a soft diet.
  • Protect the surgical site to prevent dry socket.

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When to Contact Our Office

  • Excessive or uncontrolled bleeding
  • Swelling that worsens after 72 hours
  • Fever over 101°F
  • Severe pain not relieved by medication
  • Signs of infection

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

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