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.

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• Before Oral Surgery
• After Oral Surgery
• Managing Bleeding
• Swelling and Inflammation
• Pain Management
• Diet Guidelines
• Oral Hygiene
• Activity Restrictions
• Wisdom Tooth Recovery
• Dental Implant Aftercare
• Tooth Extraction Recovery
• When to Contact Our Office

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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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