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Oral surgery is a big step toward protecting your oral and overall health. But the real healing begins after you leave the office.
Whether you had a wisdom tooth removed, a dental implant placed, or a bone graft procedure, you will go through several healing stages. Knowing what to expect can help you feel more prepared and confident each step of the way.
We offer oral surgery at our locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe and Show Low.
Table of Contents
- Healing Timeline After Oral Surgery
- When Can You Eat Normally Again?
- When Can You Brush Your Teeth?
- When Can You Return to Work or School?
- When Should You Call Your Surgeon?
- Schedule a Consultation With AZ Max
Healing Timeline After Oral Surgery
Recovery times can vary depending on the procedure, but most people experience a similar healing pattern.
First 24 Hours: Rest and Clot Formation
Your body forms blood clots to protect the surgical site. This stage is essential for the healing process.
- Avoid spitting, rinsing, or poking the site to protect the blood clot and maintain blood flow
- Bite gently on gauze to reduce bleeding
- Apply an ice pack for 15 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
- Rest with your head elevated to manage inflammation
Days 2–3: Peak Swelling, Manageable Pain
Swelling usually worsens before it improves. Discomfort may increase slightly.
- Take pain medication or pain relievers as directed
- Talk and chew as little as possible to avoid disturbing the surgical area
- Continue using ice packs or cold compresses during the day
- Eat soft, cold foods like smoothies, pudding, or yogurt
Days 4–7: Swelling Eases, Energy Returns
Your face may still feel puffy, but symptoms should begin to fade.
- Ease back into light activities
- Add warm soft foods like mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs
- Brush gently to maintain oral hygiene while avoiding the surgical area
- Use warm salt water rinses if recommended to cleanse the site and prevent dry socket
Week 2 and Beyond: Ongoing Healing
Tissue beneath the surface continues to heal, especially after more complex procedures like dental implant placement or bone grafts.
- Stitches may dissolve or be removed
- There should be minimal pain
- Resume regular routines if cleared by your oral surgeon
You will receive detailed post-operative instructions, and your doctor will review them with you before and after your surgery.
When Can You Eat Normally Again?
Eating must follow a soft progression to protect the surgical site and support the recovery process.
- First 48 hours: Stick to liquids and cold soft foods.
- Days 3–7: Move to warm soft foods like mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs.
- After 7 days: Slowly add firmer foods as tolerated.
Avoid hard, crunchy, spicy, or chewy items until fully healed. Never chew directly on the surgical site.
When Can You Brush Your Teeth?
You can brush most of your teeth the next day to support oral hygiene.
- Avoid the surgical area for 3–5 days
- Use gentle strokes with a soft-bristle brush
- Skip mouthwash unless prescribed
- Start salt water rinses 24 hours after surgery if advised
When Can You Return to Work or School?
Many people feel ready to return to work or school within 2 to 4 days. Your recovery time will depend on the procedure you had and how you respond to anesthesia or sedation.
If you feel tired or unsteady, allow yourself extra time to rest. Plan for a longer recovery if you had multiple teeth removed or more complex oral surgery.
Before resuming physically demanding work, check with your oral surgeon to be sure it is safe to do so.
When Should You Call Your Surgeon?
While some discomfort is expected, you should contact your surgeon right away if you notice any of the following:
- Bleeding that does not stop
- Worsening pain after day 5
- Swelling that suddenly increases after post op day 3
- Signs of infection like fever, pus, or bad taste
- Persistent numbness beyond 24 hours
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
Always call if something does not feel right. This is especially important if you have a medical condition or take blood thinners.
Schedule a Consultation With AZ Max
Recovery after oral surgery requires clear steps and close attention. Reduce swelling early, control pain with the right pain relievers, eat soft foods, brush carefully, and follow a gradual return to work or school. Watch for red flags like persistent pain, bleeding, or signs of infection.
At AZ Max, our team delivers expert care and practical recovery guidance. We help you heal faster, avoid complications, and get back to daily life with confidence.
To schedule a consultation at one of our 5 locations, call (480) 830-5866 or complete the online inquiry form. We have locations in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low.
