What not to do after oral surgery?

After oral surgery, avoid straws, spitting, smoking, alcohol, strenuous activity, hot/spicy/hard foods, and aggressive brushing/rinsing for several days to protect the blood clot, prevent infection, and minimize swelling, allowing for proper healing; focus on rest, gentle care, and soft, cool foods.


How many days should you rest after oral surgery?

Take it easy for at least 24 hours after oral surgery, preferably closer to 72 hours. Any pain, swelling, bleeding, or soreness you experience will improve if you let your body focus on healing. You may also be drowsy after surgery. Resting helps you avoid the risk of accidents or injuries when you are not alert.

Can I bend over after oral surgery?

Patients should not bend over or do heavy lifting for 2-3 days. In most cases, walking and light physical activity is encouraged after the first day. This will also help with swelling and help get patients back into their normal routines.


How long to ice face after oral surgery?

To minimize swelling, apply ice packs over the affected areas as soon as possible for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off the day of the surgery until you go to bed that night. This is usually a 24-hour cycle. You should also ice a little when you wake up. Please note that ice is not effective after 24 hours.

What's the worst day after a tooth extraction?

Pain usually peaks between 24–48 hours after the procedure. Swelling and tenderness are most noticeable on the second day. Proper pain management can ease discomfort significantly. Complications like dry socket can cause severe pain after day 3.


Things you SHOULD do after dental surgery (tooth extraction, dental implant, gum surgery)



What is the highest risk day for dry socket?

The First Few Days Are the Highest Risk

Most cases of dry socket occur within 2–3 days after surgery, making this period the most critical for careful aftercare. Once past the three-day mark without sharp, worsening pain, your chances of developing dry socket drop significantly.

Can I eat normally 1 day after tooth extraction?

Initially, the focus is on allowing the blood clot to form and stabilize in the extraction site, which is crucial for proper healing. During the first 24 to 48 hours, it's essential to avoid any solid foods that could dislodge the clot and lead to a painful condition known as a dry socket.

What is not allowed after tooth extraction?

Most importantly, for 48 hours following your extraction, DO NOT SMOKE, SPIT, USE A STRAW, DRINK CARBONATED BEVERAGES, OR ALCOHOL, AND AVOID STRENEOUS EXERCISE. Avoid blowing your nose and sneezing (if you must sneeze, do so with your mouth open to prevent any sinus damage) for the first week.


What's the best first food after surgery?

Top 10 Foods to Eat After Surgery to Promote Healing
  • Berries. Berries are an excellent source of vitamin C. ...
  • Vegetables. ...
  • Fats (nuts, oils, fish) ...
  • Dark Leafy Greens. ...
  • Meat or Other Alternatives. ...
  • Eggs. ...
  • Probiotics. ...
  • Brightly colored fruits.


How to swallow to avoid dry socket?

To swallow without risking dry socket, follow these steps: Take Small Sips: Instead of gulping large amounts of liquid at once, take small, controlled sips. This reduces the risk of dislodging the blood clot and keeps the extraction site protected.

What is the 2 2 2 rule for teeth?

The “2 2 2 rule” in dentistry is a simple guideline for good oral hygiene: brush twice a day for two minutes each time, and visit the dentist twice a year. Following this rule helps prevent cavities and gum disease, making it a cornerstone of preventive oral care.


Is walking ok after oral surgery?

Right after the procedure, you should rest your mouth as much as possible to avoid disturbing the healing process. Here's what you should keep in mind: Avoid excessive talking for the first few hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot. Speak slowly and carefully to adjust to any changes in how your tongue moves.

Can sleeping on your side cause dry socket?

To prevent dry sockets, avoid sleeping on your side and refrain from sucking on straws. Keeping your head elevated and gently rinsing your mouth as directed by your dentist can also help.

What day is worst for oral surgery?

Remember, the first two days after surgery are usually the worst. On the first day, the sedatives and painkillers used during surgery are still in your bloodstream, so you won't feel as much pain as you will on day two.


What are the best drinks after tooth extraction?

Water, lukewarm tea, and milk are safe to drink immediately after tooth extraction. Smoothies and protein shakes can be added to your diet after 24 hours. Avoid hot, alcoholic, acidic, and carbonated drinks for several days post-extraction.

Is bed rest required after tooth extraction?

The importance of rest after tooth extraction. After tooth extraction, patients do not exactly need to be bedridden, but what they want to avoid is overexerting the extraction area. It is important to take it easy, especially in the first 24 hours.

What are the 5 W's after surgery?

The most common causes of postoperative fever are often summarized for medical students by a mnemonic beginning with the letter W. The classic list consists of five W's – Wind, Water, Wound, Walking, and Wonder Drugs, but two other causes should also be considered – Wing/Waterway and (W)abscess.


Why can't you eat eggs after surgery?

After surgery, you should avoid eating eggs because they are taboo foods that cause scars and slow wound healing!! This is a very wrong belief because eggs are a good source of protein that is easy to find and close at hand. Eggs contain protein that helps repair the body parts worn out after surgery.

Why is day 3 the hardest after surgery?

The physiological reasons for this surprise may include: The inflammatory response tends peak during this time and can lead to increased pain. Also, by day 3 many patients are trying to wean themselves off of pain medication and pain can escalate.

Why is day 3 the worst after tooth extraction?

Healing takes time, and day 3 after the extraction can feel the toughest because of swelling, inflammation, and more use of the mouth. But this is part of the healing process. If you follow your dentist's instructions, rest, and take care of the area, you should start feeling better after day 3.


Why no dairy after tooth extraction?

Risk of Infection: Dairy products introduce bacteria at the extraction site, causing an increase in the risk of infection. Maintaining oral hygiene and avoiding foods that harbor bacteria in your diet is necessary for a quick recovery.

How to sleep first night after tooth extraction?

Conclusion. Sleeping after a tooth extraction might feel daunting, but with the right care, it becomes manageable. Elevating your head, managing pain, avoiding dry socket, and following a calming routine can help you rest and heal faster. Remember, the first night is the hardest.

Can I eat ice cream after extraction?

It's cool and soft, so you can eat it comfortably even when your mouth is tender. Because ice cream is cold, it can help minimize any natural swelling that occurs in the mouth. Choose your ice cream with care, though. Soft serve is ideal right after surgery, since it doesn't require as much jaw muscle to eat.


What happens if you don't take antibiotics after tooth extraction?

Skipping antibiotics when prescribed can increase the risk of infection, especially in complex extractions or for patients with weakened immune systems.

Should I take a day off work after tooth extraction?

Take some time off work to relax and get plenty of rest

After a tooth extraction, it is recommended to take time to allow your body to rest and heal for a day or two. Try to avoid any strenuous activity so that you can feel at your best once healed.