For most people, the thought of oral surgery brings anxiety with it. Fortunately, getting the right top-level professional to work on your teeth can ensure a virtually pain-free experience with optimal results. Finding a qualified dentist in Henrico is as easy as reaching out to your experienced dentists at Short Pump Dental
If you'll be needing oral surgery, keeping a few helpful tips in mind will improve and speed up your recovery.
1. Rest
When you’ve just had oral surgery, it’s important to get plenty of rest to aid in your speedy recovery. Your body needs time to heal and recover from the trauma of the procedure. It’s best to give yourself permission to relax and take it easy for a few days after the surgery. Listen to your body, and rest as much as you can.
To make sure you are receiving enough rest, try to get your full 8 hours of sleep each night and take frequent breaks during the day if possible. Taking short naps or laying down for a few minutes can help you to recharge and let your body recuperate.
2. Protect the Area
To ensure a speedy recovery and to prevent any further injury to the area, it is essential to protect the area around your mouth. Avoid any contact with the area, such as scratching or rubbing. Speak to your doctor about what else you can do to protect the area and to help speed up your recovery. You should also avoid smoking or drinking, as these activities can harm the healing process.
3. Apply Cold Compresses
To help reduce any swelling or discomfort in the area, it is recommended that you apply cold compresses to the outside of your mouth several times throughout the day. A cold compress can also help reduce inflammation and make the area more comfortable. Make sure that the compress is not too cold, as this can cause further irritation.
To apply a cold compress, wrap a few ice cubes in a thin cloth and apply the compress directly onto the area.
4. Follow a Soft Diet and Stay Hydrated
After oral surgery, it’s crucial to follow a soft diet. Eating foods that are easy to chew, such as mashed potatoes, eggs, soup, and yogurt, can help aid healing. Avoid eating anything with sharp edges or anything too chewy, as this can cause more pain and further damage.
Furthermore, you need to stay hydrated with plenty of water to help flush out any toxins in your body and promote cell growth.
5. Don't Forget Good Oral Hygiene
It is vital to practice good oral hygiene for a speedy recovery after your oral surgery. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss regularly, avoiding the area where you recently had surgery. When brushing and flossing, do so gently.
Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash specifically designed for oral surgery to help guard against infection. It's essential to avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol; instead, ask your doctor for advice on choosing a mouthwash specifically designed for post-procedure needs.
Contact a Short Pump Cosmetic Dentist
If you're in Henrico, Richmond, and Tuckahoe, VA, our knowledgeable and experienced professionals can help you with your dental issues. Contact our dental experts and take advantage of Short Pump dental implants and a wide range of other procedures.