Do you have an upcoming oral surgery? Oral surgery is a blanket term for a wide variety of procedures that are performed inside the mouth. Recovery times vary based on numerous factors such as the type of surgery and your own personal rate of healing.
If you’re wondering when you can return to work or school after oral surgery, here’s a general idea of what to expect so you can plan accordingly.
Average Recovery Period Following Oral Surgery
On average you can expect to need between 1 and 3 days to recover enough to return to work, school, or regular daily activities. The amount of rest you need may come down to your own personal preference, as well as the following factors.
Factors That Affect Your Recovery Time
- The type of procedure. Some oral surgery procedures are more complex or invasive than others, meaning the recovery time could be longer.
- Anesthesia. The type of anesthesia you receive during your procedure can affect your recovery. IV sedation or general anesthesia can leave you feeling groggy or tired for a longer period of time after your procedure.
- Your age. Recovery time may be affected by age. The younger you are, the faster you tend to bounce back after oral surgery.
- Your general health. The better your overall health, the less recovery time you may need before returning to work.
- Compliance with aftercare instructions. When you follow your doctor’s instructions following oral surgery you may recover more quickly. Aftercare instructions are designed to help you feel better more quickly.
Common Oral Surgery Procedures
- Wisdom teeth removal. Extraction of your wisdom teeth is often a surgical procedure due to the size and location of the teeth. Impacted wisdom teeth (stuck below the gums) require more invasive surgery, and recovery may be longer.
- Dental implant placement. Dental implants are surgically placed in the jawbone. The more dental implants you have placed, the longer your recovery may take.
- Jaw surgery. Maxillofacial (jaw) surgery may take longer than the average 3 day recovery period depending on the complexity of the procedure.
- Periodontal surgery. There are a few different types of periodontal (gum) surgery, including crown lengthening, gum contouring, and gum grafting.
- Endodontic surgery. Endodontic surgery may be needed when the source of a tooth infection is in the root. An Apicoectomy is a common endodontic surgery that involves removal and sealing of the root tip.
Rest is Important for Recovery
It may be difficult to rest and relax when you want to get back to work. But taking the time to let yourself heal and recover will ensure you are at your best when you return to your regular daily responsibilities and reduce your chances of missing more work later due post-surgery complications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Surgery
Do I have to be put to sleep for oral surgery?
The type of sedation used for an oral surgery procedure depends on the invasiveness and complexity of the procedure, as well your own personal preference. Some patients choose to be sedated for their own comfort.
How can I recover more quickly?
Follow your doctor’s instructions following your procedure. Rest, drink plenty of water, eat soft foods, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and protect the surgical site.
Contact Glassman Dental Care
To learn more about oral surgery and recovery, call 212-787-4860 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.