After oral surgery, it is important to avoid excessive physical activity such as playing sports, exercising, bending over, or lifting heavy objects for 3 to 5 days. Walking and light physical activity are recommended after the first day to reduce swelling and help patients return to their normal routines. Depending on the procedure, patients may be asked to avoid strenuous activities for longer periods of time, including swimming and water sports for at least 3 to 5 days. It is also important to remember that patients are more likely to be injured if they perform strenuous physical activities or contact sports when they are tired. In addition to avoiding physical activity, patients should also avoid drinking through a straw, spitting, or rinsing their mouth vigorously as these activities can lead to increased bleeding.
If bleeding persists, contact your dentist for further instructions. On the first day after surgery, some bleeding and pain may be experienced. To reduce swelling, it is recommended to use ice throughout the first day. The more ice used on the first day, the less swelling will be experienced on the second day. On the third day, jaw muscles may become stiff and it may be difficult to open the mouth normally.
Applying moist heat to the face on the second and third day can help relax the muscles and make it easier to open the mouth. Most patients feel that they have overcome the problem and are on track to recover in 3 to 5 days. It is important to follow post-operative instructions closely in order to make recovery as comfortable as possible. Allow time for your body to begin to recover before resuming an active social, academic, or sports schedule. Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe antibiotics after wisdom teeth have been removed to prevent infections or other complications.
