Post-Op Care Instructions

Your recovery begins the moment your surgery ends. At The Christiana Center for Oral Surgery & Dental Implants, we want to help you heal safely and comfortably, with as little stress as possible. These post-operative instructions are designed to guide you through the first hours and days after your procedure and ensure the best possible outcome.

Immediate Care After Surgery

As you leave our office, you’ll be under the care of a responsible adult. Driving yourself home is not permitted after receiving IV sedation or general anesthesia. For the remainder of the day, we recommend resting in a calm, quiet space with your head slightly elevated.

Physical activity should be avoided for at least 24 hours, and in many cases, longer. Giving your body time to rest is essential—not only for your comfort but for reducing swelling and minimizing the risk of complications.

If you experience grogginess, minor bleeding, or swelling in the first few hours after surgery, know that this is expected. We’ll give you specific instructions to manage these symptoms with confidence and ease.

Managing Discomfort and Swelling

Some discomfort is natural after oral surgery, but it should be manageable with the techniques and medications we provide. Your care plan may include prescription pain relievers or instructions for over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Take medications exactly as directed.

To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the outside of your face near the surgical area:

• Use ice for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off
• Continue for the first 24 to 48 hours
• Always use a soft cloth barrier between the ice and your skin

After the first two days, switch to gentle heat if swelling persists. If pain increases rather than improves, contact our office right away.

Controlling Bleeding

It’s normal to experience light bleeding from the surgical site for several hours after your procedure. To help stop the bleeding:

• Gently bite down on clean gauze for 30–45 minutes
• Replace with fresh gauze as needed if bleeding continues
• Keep your head elevated and avoid spitting, smoking, or using a straw

These activities can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing. If bleeding becomes heavy or doesn’t slow with gauze pressure, please call us immediately.

Eating, Drinking & Hydration

For the first few days, stick with cool or room-temperature soft foods. Think smoothies, soups, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes. Avoid anything too hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy, as these can irritate the surgical site.

Stay well-hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks, but do not drink through a straw. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided while you’re healing, especially if you’re taking prescription medications.

Keeping Your Mouth Clean

Maintaining oral hygiene after surgery is important—but it requires a delicate touch.

Begin brushing your teeth gently the evening of surgery, avoiding the surgical area Rinse with warm salt water several times a day, especially after eating Avoid commercial mouthwashes unless we’ve instructed otherwise

Good hygiene will reduce the risk of infection and help your mouth heal more quickly.

Activity Restrictions and Medications

You’ll need to limit strenuous physical activity—including heavy lifting, exercise, or sports—for several days. Returning to your normal routine gradually will help avoid unnecessary swelling or discomfort. If you’re unsure when it’s safe to resume specific activities, ask your surgeon during your follow-up appointment.

If you’ve been prescribed medications:

• Take them exactly as instructed
• Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if you feel fine before they’re finished
• Do not mix medications with alcohol or any non-approved substances

Scheduling Your Follow-up Visit

Most patients will come back for a follow-up visit so we can check your healing and make sure everything is on track. In the meantime, if something doesn’t feel right, please don’t wait—give us a call. We’re here to support you and want to make sure your recovery is as smooth and comfortable as possible.