If you want to successfully heal from oral surgery, it is important that you follow your doctor’s orders. That means, every detail, no matter how small, should be taken into consideration if you want to ensure that your progress moves along swiftly and without any problems. Once you enter the recovery phase, you will naturally have many questions, including “How long should you use ice after oral surgery?” Fortunately, your oral surgeon will be happy to answer this as well as any additional questions you have so that you can heal quickly and effectively.
Why Do You Swell After Oral Surgery?
Depending on the type of oral surgery you have completed, swelling is a natural side effect. No matter the type of surgery, when you operate on the tissues within your mouth or remove any of the bone, it is likely that swelling will occur.
Typically, this common side effect will not appear for hours or even a day after your procedure but do not be alarmed when it does. On average, your swelling will be at its peak within 2-3 days after your surgery, but there are things you can do to reduce its size and alleviate any discomfort brought on by excessive swelling.
Why Use Ice?
Ice is known to be effective when it comes to reducing swelling and helping with pain or discomfort. This is because it constricts your blood vessels, causing minimal fluid to move out of the tissues that live near or on the site of your procedure. The ice then enables the swelling to go down so that when day 2 or 3 arrives, it is not quite as significant.
How to Apply Ice
Your oral surgeon will likely suggest that you use ice for the first 24 hours after surgery. Whether it is a cold compress, ice pack, a plastic bag filled with ice, or a frozen bag of peas, almost any type of frozen or cold object will suffice.
It is important to remember never to place the item directly onto your face. Instead, use a towel to wrap around the ice pack before gently placing it against your skin for 15 minutes at a time. If necessary, set a timer and once the time is up, remove it for 15 minutes. You can continue to repeat this pattern throughout the first 24 hours after your surgery.
Should you have any concerns or questions about your recovery process, do not be afraid to speak with your oral surgeon. They will be able to provide detailed instructions on what to expect after surgery and what you can do to encourage faster, more effective healing.
About the Author
Dr. Dean Cloutier and Dr. Justin Dessereaux of New Haven Dental Group are highly skilled, compassionate dentists who believe in offering kind and friendly service to patients in need of dental care. With years of experience, Drs. Cloutier and Dessereaux will provide individualized care and personalized treatment plans to meet your needs. From preventive care that includes regular dental checkups and cleanings to oral surgery in Branford that involves placing dental implants, your safety and comfort are our top priorities. To learn more about how we can assist in helping you achieve your dental goals, contact us via the website or by calling (203) 488-0091.