Although any surgical procedure performed in the oral cavity (gum incisions, bone removal, complicated tooth extraction, implant placement and/or suturing) is completely pain-free because it is performed under local anaesthetic, patients usually feel uneasy for psychological reasons (fear, concern about pain etc.). In order for the procedure to be successful, and for the wound to heal as quickly as possible, it is very important that our patients follow the instructions they receive at the clinic. The advantage of oral surgery is that all wounds in the mouth heal faster than other parts of the body. The area in which the procedure is performed is relatively small compared to the rest of the body where larger procedures are performed e.g. on the torso.
The method of operation, the instruments we use and the type of suturing employed at the end of the procedure are also adapted to oral cavity surgery and are very precise.
After each procedure, whether it is tooth extraction or implant placement, it is important to encourage the formation of a blood clot from which the healing process begins. That's why it is important not to rinse your mouth or suck on the wound. The taste of thymus in the mouth on the day of the procedure is quite normal and is not a cause for concern. To prevent swelling, it is necessary to cool the outside with ice (wrapped in a cloth or gauze) or gelatine preparations that can be repeatedly frozen. It is necessary to cool and remove the ice every 5 – 10 minutes to avoid any frostbite on the skin. It is recommended to take a painkiller before the anaesthetic wears off and to take it, if necessary, for the next 24 hours. Ibuprofen (Brufen) and paracetamol (Lupocet) painkillers are recommended, while any containing acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) should be avoided as they hinder clotting. It is also recommended to avoid smoking until the wound heals, because the warm tobacco smoke prevents normal healing, and it should be noted that any smoking is not permitted for at least 24 hours after the procedure has been performed. Eating is possible as soon as the anaesthetic wears off (otherwise you may bite your lip inadvertently), and it is not recommended to consume any warm drinks or meals, as well as any solid food which could damage the operated area. Stick to cold, soft and mushy dishes instead, which is an ideal excuse for eating ice cream!