Pain
- There should be no pain immediately after the operation due to the local anaesthetic used. This should last for 3-4 hours before sensation returns slowly and care should be taken to avoid biting the lip or tongue during this time
- Pain tends to be worse on the 2nd or 3rd day but gradually improves over a period of 7-10 days
- Simple painkillers such as Paracetamol, Ibuprofen or Codydramol should control the pain
- If there is a sudden increase in pain after a few days, this may indicate infection and the surgeon should be contacted.
Swelling
- This is common after surgery has been carried out in the jaw
- The swelling reaches it’s maximum 2-3 days after surgery
- The swelling should resolve 7-10 days after surgery
- Bruising of the face occasionally occurs and can take up to 2 weeks to resolve
Bleeding
- This should be minimal by the time you leave the surgery/hospital
- Blood stained saliva is to be expected for 24-48 hours after the operation
- Do not rinse the mouth for the first day. This may disturb the blood clot and cause bleeding
- If persistent bleeding occurs, roll up a piece of gauze and place it over the wound and bite firmly over a period of at least 15 minutes
Oral Hygiene
- The next day, use a hot salt-water mouth bath. The water should be as warm as possible and a spoonful of salt added. Take a mouthful and hold it still for a couple of minutes before spitting out
- Repeat 4 times daily. This will help healing
- Keep your teeth clean with gentle tooth brushing if possible. A tooth brush can be softened under a hot tap
- Chlorhexidine (Corsodyl) mouthwash will help reduce plaque while tooth brushing is difficult
Diet
- Your mouth opening will be restricted for about a week
- Eating semi- solid food should be possible
- Use your own discretion and gradually start eating normally according to your own pace
Stitches
- If you have stitches (sutures) in your mouth, these should dissolve and drop out after a period of 7-10 days
Medication
- Antibiotics after the operation may be required in some cases
- If necessary, antibiotics and painkillers will be prescribed or advice given
Time off work
- This will depend on your profession and the amount of surgery
- The average time off work should be between 3-5 days, but there is a great deal of variation between individuals
Follow-up
- If follow- up is needed, this is usually 2 weeks after surgery
