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Post-Op Instructions

Patient Post-Operative Instructions

Guidelines for a safe, comfortable, and efficient recovery following your procedure.

At River Ridge Oral & Maxillofacial Surgical Center, we want your recovery to be as smooth as possible. While some after-effects of surgery are minimal, following these guidelines is essential for proper healing. If you have questions about your progress or experience a symptom not covered here, please call our Sioux Falls office at 605-331-5059.

Immediate Care (The First Hour)

  • Gauze Pressure: Bite down gently but firmly on the gauze packs placed over the surgical area. Keep them in place for at least one hour.
  • Changing Gauze: Do not change gauze during the first hour unless bleeding is not controlled. After one hour, remove gently. If active bleeding continues, place fresh, moistened gauze and apply pressure for another 30–45 minutes.
  • Protect the Area: Do not disturb the surgical site. Avoid vigorous rinsing or probing the area. Do not smoke for at least 72 hours, as this significantly increases the risk of dry socket and delayed healing.

Managing Common Symptoms

  • Bleeding & Oozing: Intermittent oozing overnight is normal. If bleeding is heavy, reposition the gauze. A helpful tip: substitute a moistened tea bag (wrapped in gauze) for 20–30 minutes to help stabilize the site.
  • Swelling: Swelling is a natural part of the healing process. Apply cold packs or ice bags intermittently (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 48 hours. After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses to soothe stiffness.
  • Pain Management: Take your first dose of pain medication before the local anesthetic wears off. To prevent nausea, take medication with a small amount of food and plenty of water.

Diet & Activity

  • Nutrition: Do not skip meals. Start with liquids or pureed foods (pudding, yogurt, milkshakes) and progress to solid foods as comfort allows.
  • Avoid: Do not use a straw for the first few days. Avoid hard or sharp foods like nuts, seeds, and popcorn that could lodge in the surgical site.
  • Cleaning Your Mouth: Keeping the area clean is essential. Beginning the second day, gently rinse with warm salt water (1/4 tsp salt in 8oz water) at least 2–3 times daily. Brush your teeth gently within the bounds of comfort.

What to Expect as You Heal

The first 48 hours are typically the most uncomfortable. By the third day, you should notice a steady, gradual improvement. If you feel something hard or sharp in the area, it is likely the bony walls that supported the tooth; these often smooth out on their own.

Note: A 24-hour answering service is available for after-hours concerns 605-310-0508. For a faster response, please call during regular business hours.