Oral surgery is a broad term that covers a whole variety of procedures that range in severity from day patients to surgeries that require experts of multiple disciplines present in the operating theatre. With such a broad scope in mind, there is no one-size fits all method for recovery, but there are a few things that you should expect when getting back on the horse after the surgery you have had. Oral surgery is, after all, in a particularly sensitive and busy area of your body, so it is important you are ready for a few changes to your lifestyle as you heal.
Cleanliness Is Vital
Depending on what type of oral surgery you have, you will be expected to keep your mouth spotlessly clean as much as possible in the weeks after. Infections are no joke, and so rinsing the area continuously throughout the day is going to become a habit you have to get used to, for a little while at least. The exact specifics of when you will need to begin your cleaning routine, and how often, will be provided to you by your attending physician so always listen to their advice and follow it as closely as possible.
Minor Lifestyle Changes
As mentioned above, you will need to keep your mouth as clean and free from corrosive elements as possible. That means that some things, such as smoking, drinking a lot of alcohol, and eating particularly messy or hard foods are immediately ruled out. These will slowly be allowed to be brought back into your lifestyle, but it is important you are ready for this step and not surprised when it is told to you after the surgery. By accepting the surgery you accept the condition of your recovery, so it will be too late to back down when it is all finished!
Movement
Depending on how intricate your surgery was, you may need to restrict movement of your face and upper body so that the bones, muscles, teeth, or other elements can settle back into place. Think of it as a time to relax and catch up on a book you wanted to read or a show you needed to binge. Your face contains so many little, interconnecting parts (especially around your mouth) that you need to be as pragmatic as possible and keep still, if only for a few days or a week post-surgery.
For more information on oral surgery, contact a professional in your area.
