5 Tips to Speed Up Your Healing After Oral Surgery

Recovering after oral surgery doesn’t have to feel uncertain or drawn out. Whether you’ve had a tooth removed or an implant placed, the right steps make a big difference. This blog offers five proven ways to speed up healing, reduce discomfort, and avoid setbacks so you can get back to feeling normal, faster and with more peace of mind.

Follow Your Dentist’s Post-Op Instructions Carefully

Your dentist or oral surgeon gives you instructions for a reason: they’re your personal roadmap to healing. Even if some tips feel minor, don’t skip them. These directions are based on your specific procedure and condition.

• Take medications exactly as prescribed.
• Avoid touching the clinical or surgical site with your fingers or tongue.
• Rest. Your body heals faster when you slow down for a bit.

People sometimes think they’ll be fine without reading the full care guide. Big mistake. Let’s say your oral surgeon said no straws for a few days; ignoring that could lead to dry socket, a painful setback.

If you’re from the area and have received oral surgery treatment in Chicago, IL, make it your mission to follow the plan your care provider gave you. No shortcuts.

Manage Swelling with Ice Packs in the First 48 Hours

Swelling is normal after surgery. But how long it lasts and how much discomfort it causes depends partly on what you do in the early hours. Ice packs can help reduce swelling and even pain when used correctly.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Put an ice pack to the exterior of your cheek for 15–20 minutes.
• Take a 20-minute break before reapplying.
• Repeat for the first two days, especially in the first 12 hours.

Don’t use heat too soon; it can make things worse. Ice is your friend here. Elevate your head while resting to help drain fluid away from the area. Prop yourself up with pillows at night.

Staying ahead of the swelling keeps you more comfortable and helps the healing move along faster. Small effort, big results.

Stick to Soft Foods to Avoid Irritating the Surgical Site

You may be hungry, but now is not the time for nachos or steak. Your mouth needs rest, and chewing too much can cause irritation or even reopen the wound. Stick with easy-to-eat options for a few days.

Great choices include:

• Applesauce
• Mashed potatoes
• Smoothies (use a spoon, not a straw)
• Yogurt
• Scrambled eggs

Avoid anything crunchy, spicy, hot in temperature, or full of seeds. Seeds can get trapped in the site and delay healing.

If you’re not sure what’s safe, talk to a local dentist in Chicago before trying new foods. A little caution now saves you from big problems later.

Keep the Area Clean Without Over-Brushing

Good oral hygiene speeds up healing, but don’t go overboard. It’s tempting to brush near the site to keep it clean, but aggressive cleaning can disrupt clots or stitches. Instead, think gently and safely.

Follow this guide:

• Skip brushing near the surgical spot for the first day.
• Rinse gently with warm saltwater after 24 hours.
• Use a soft toothbrush when you begin brushing again.
• Avoid mouthwash with alcohol; it can burn and slow healing.

Cleanliness helps prevent infection. But over-cleaning? That can make things worse. Trust the healing process. Let your body do its work, and ease into brushing slowly.

If you’re seeing an oral surgeon near you, they might suggest a special rinse. Follow their advice and use only what they recommend.

Know When to Contact Your Oral Surgeon for Concerns

Pain and swelling are normal to a degree, but there’s a line. Don’t ignore red flags. Knowing what’s normal versus what needs professional attention helps you avoid complications.

Call your dentist or oral surgeon if you notice:

• Pain that gets worse after day three
• Bleeding that doesn’t stop after 24 hours.
• Pus or a bad taste coming from the site
• Fever or chills
• Trouble swallowing or breathing

These signs could point to infection or a more serious issue. Most problems can be treated quickly if you catch them early. So don’t wait. If something feels off, trust your gut and reach out.

Our care team is always ready to answer questions and provide help when needed. You should never feel like you’re navigating this alone.

Final Thoughts

Recovering well after oral surgery is all about doing the small things right. With patience, care, and the right support, healing becomes easier and quicker. Trust your instincts, follow your dentist’s advice, and rest when your body asks for it. For expert care and guidance every step of the way, schedule your follow-up with Lawn Dental Center today.