After dental surgery some swelling, soreness and minor bleeding are normal. This guide describes typical recovery. Your own dentist's instructions come first, and you should contact them if anything worries you.
The first 24 hours
Bite on the gauze as instructed, avoid rinsing hard, spitting or using a straw, and rest with your head slightly raised. Use cold packs on the cheek on and off for short periods if advised. Take pain relief as prescribed. Avoid hot drinks and alcohol.
The first week
Swelling often peaks around the second or third day and then eases. Eat soft, cool food and avoid chewing on the operated area. Brush the other teeth normally and clean the surgical area only as the dentist advises. Do not smoke, which slows healing and raises the risk of problems.
What is normal
Mild bruising, a feeling of tightness, slight oozing for a day or two and discomfort that gradually improves. A small amount of bone graft material may be seen in the mouth.
Warning signs
Contact your dentist if you have bleeding that does not stop with pressure, swelling that gets worse after the third day, a fever, a bad taste or discharge, severe pain that is getting worse instead of better or numbness that persists. Difficulty breathing or swallowing needs urgent medical help.
Flying home
Ask the surgeon when it is safe to fly after your procedure. Sinus work and large grafts can be affected by air pressure changes, and swelling can make long journeys uncomfortable. Do not plan to fly on the day of surgery unless your dentist has agreed to it.
Follow-up
Keep the review appointments, in the clinic and at home, and keep your records. Stitches, if not self-dissolving, need to be removed at the right time. If you are far from the clinic, agree in advance who you will contact.
The short version
Know the warning signs before you travel, and agree in advance who you call if something does not feel right.
General information, not medical advice. A qualified dentist decides what suits you after examining you.