What to Expect After Surgery
– Pain in the surgical area is normal and usually managed with painkillers.
– Swelling may appear on the 2nd or 3rd day — a normal response. It usually subsides by day 3–4.
– Temporary fever up to 38°C, bruising, or hematoma in the surgical area may occur.
– Temporary numbness or altered sensation in the face or surgical site may be experienced.
– Slight oozing may occur in the first 24 hours — from the palate if a graft was taken.
When to Contact Your Dentist
– If pain persists or increases for more than 5 days.
– Bleeding continues for over 24 hours. For strong bleeding from the palate, contact your doctor immediately.
– Swelling does not subside within 5 days.
– If you have any doubts or questions.
What to Avoid
– No food or drink for 2 hours after surgery.
– Do not touch or attempt to clean/rinse the surgical area.
– For 3 days, avoid sauna, hot bath, tanning bed. Limit physical activity.
– Avoid alcohol, especially when taking medications. Limit smoking to fewer than 5 cigarettes per day.
What to Do
– Apply a cold compress (with towel/cloth) to the surgical area during the first 3–4 hours: 5 minutes on, 5 minutes off, repeat.
– For 3 days, eat soft, non-irritating, non-hot foods that do not traumatize the oral mucosa.
– Take all medications exactly as prescribed.
– Postoperative observation continues until suture removal, which will be done during your follow-up visit.
Oral Hygiene Instructions
– Starting the day after surgery: rinse with 0.05% chlorhexidine or Miramistin 3–4 times a day (after meals) for 7 days.
– Do not brush the operated area for 2 weeks. After that, use a soft surgical toothbrush (e.g. Curaprox CS Surgical) for another 2 weeks.
– Do not use an irrigator or dental floss in the surgical area for one month.
