Post-Operative Instructions After Oral Surgery

If you’ve recently had a tooth extraction, wisdom teeth removal, or oral surgery in West Island, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth and complication-free recovery.

At Luminance Dentaire in Dollard-des-Ormeaux (DDO), we provide clear post-operative instructions to help reduce bleeding, swelling, pain, and the risk of infection.

Below is your complete guide to oral surgery recovery.

🩸 How to Control Bleeding After Oral Surgery

Some bleeding is normal during the first few hours after a dental extraction.

To control bleeding:

• Bite firmly on a moist gauze pad for 30–45 minutes
• If needed, replace with a clean, damp gauze
• A moist tea bag can help if bleeding persists
• Keep your head elevated while resting

Avoid:

• Spitting
• Using a straw
• Rinsing your mouth for 24 hours
• Falling asleep with gauze in your mouth
• Exercising for 3 days

These precautions help prevent dry socket, one of the most common complications after tooth extraction.

❄️ How to Reduce Swelling After Tooth Extraction

Swelling typically peaks within 48 hours.

To reduce swelling:

• Apply ice on the outside of the face
• 10 minutes ON, 10 minutes OFF
• Continue for the first 24 hours

Do NOT apply heat during this period.

Cold compresses minimize inflammation and speed up recovery after wisdom teeth removal or surgical extractions.

💊 Managing Pain After Oral Surgery

Mild jaw stiffness and discomfort are normal.

You may take:

• Advil (ibuprofen)
• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Or prescribed medication as directed

If prescribed stronger medication:

• Take only as instructed
• Do not increase dosage
• Avoid alcohol
• Do not drive or operate machinery
• Do not take on an empty stomach

⚠️ Contact us immediately if pain increases 3–4 days after surgery, as this may indicate a dry socket or infection.

🟡 Bruising After Dental Surgery

Some patients may experience mild bruising on the cheek.

• Skin may appear blue or black
• May turn yellow before fading
• Usually resolves within 5–7 days

This is temporary and part of normal healing.

🥣 What to Eat After Oral Surgery

Do not eat for the first 2 hours after surgery.

For the next few days:

Choose:

• Soft foods (yogurt, mashed potatoes, eggs, soup)
• Cool or lukewarm foods
• Plenty of fluids

Avoid:

• Alcohol
• Very hot or very cold drinks
• Hard, crunchy, or spicy foods

Proper nutrition supports faster healing after oral surgery.

🪥 Oral Hygiene After Tooth Extraction

After 24 hours (if bleeding has stopped):

• Rinse gently with warm salt water
  (1 teaspoon salt in 8 oz / 235 ml warm water)
• Brush normally
• Avoid the surgical area

Do NOT smoke for at least 24 hours, as smoking significantly increases the risk of complications.

🚨 When to Contact Our West Island Dental Clinic

Call Luminance Dentaire in DDO immediately if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain
• Persistent bleeding
• Swelling that worsens after 3 days
• Fever
• Signs of infection

📍 4655 Blvd St-Jean, Local #102
Dollard-des-Ormeaux (West Island)
📞 514-696-6122

Oral Surgery in West Island, Montreal

Whether you had a wisdom tooth extraction, surgical extraction, or other oral surgery, following these instructions carefully will help ensure proper healing.

If you have any questions about your recovery, our team at Luminance Dentaire is here to help.