You don’t want to have any surprises after surgery, and there are steps you have to follow in order to heal properly. Oral Surgery Associates in Anchorage, Alaska, wants to make sure you know what to expect after having surgery.     

After surgery, oral surgeons say it’s critical to avoid spitting, rinsing, or drinking through straws. Doing any of these could cause the sutures to fall out or interfere with the healing process. In the case of a tooth extraction, it could dislodge the blood clot that's necessary for healing. Also, you should eat only soft foods for the first day or two after surgery.

Both bleeding and swelling near the oral surgery site are both perfectly normal and should not cause alarm. However, if the bleeding does not diminish after 24 hours, you should call your oral surgeon’s office. Swelling may last for up to a few days.

Regarding pain management, it is expected that you'll need medication like Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen to help with the discomfort caused by post-surgery swelling. This may be necessary for 1-2 weeks following the procedure. Placing a cold ice compress on the site can also help with pain.

Why should you trust oral surgeons like Dr. William F. Bergeron, Jr. and Dr. Ray Holloway to perform your oral surgery? They are both certified in oral and maxillofacial surgery and have received thorough hospital-based training in both anesthesia and surgical procedures. If you have questions about oral surgery or the healing process that follows, call Oral Surgery Associates today at (907) 561-1430 or visit their website for more information.