Posted on 10/15/2025 by Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a healthy and beautiful smile with your recent oral graft! We know that undergoing any surgical procedure can be daunting, and the recovery process can sometimes feel overwhelming. But rest assured, with proper care and attention, you'll be back to your usual routines in no time.
This guide will help you navigate the first 24 hours after your oral graft, providing essential information on managing discomfort, maintaining proper oral hygiene, and ensuring a smooth recovery.
What to Expect in the First 24 Hours
Following your oral graft procedure, you may experience some swelling and discomfort in the surgical area. This is completely normal and should gradually subside within the first few days. Your oral surgeon will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully and take the medication as directed.
Some slight bleeding is also expected during the first 24 hours. To control bleeding, gently bite on a gauze pad placed over the surgical site for about 30 minutes. If the bleeding persists, contact your oral surgeon immediately.
Essential Oral Care Tips
Maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial during the healing process. While brushing your teeth might be difficult, it's essential to keep your mouth clean. Rinse your mouth gently with a saltwater solution (a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a cup of warm water) several times a day, especially after meals. Avoid brushing directly on the surgical site for the first few days.
Do's and Don'ts for a Smooth Recovery
Do's:
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Take your prescribed pain medication as directed.
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Apply ice packs to the affected area to reduce swelling.
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Elevate your head with extra pillows while sleeping.
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Eat soft, bland foods that are easy to chew and swallow.
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Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and clear juices.
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Get plenty of rest.
Don'ts:
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Don't smoke or use tobacco products, as they can hinder healing.
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Don't drink alcohol, as it can increase bleeding.
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Don't eat hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the surgical site.
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Don't brush your teeth directly on the surgical site for the first few days.
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Don't engage in strenuous activity that can increase your heart rate and blood pressure.
Follow-Up Care
It's important to follow up with your oral surgeon as scheduled to ensure proper healing and monitor the progress of your oral graft. They will likely schedule checkups within the first week and then again after a few months to assess the graft's integration and your overall oral health.
When to Seek Immediate Attention
While some discomfort and swelling are normal after an oral graft, there are certain situations that require immediate attention from your oral surgeon. These include:
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Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop after applying pressure.
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Severe pain that doesn't respond to medication.
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Pus or discharge from the surgical site.
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Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
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Fever or chills.
Remember, communication with your oral surgeon is key to a successful recovery. Don't hesitate to contact them if you have any questions or concerns, even if they seem minor. By following these tips and staying in close contact with your oral surgeon, you can ensure a smooth and successful recovery from your oral graft, paving the way for a healthy and beautiful smile and a lifetime of confident smiles.
About Us | Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery Our surgeon and compassionate oral surgery team share the same goal: To provide the most comfortable experiences with the very best outcomes for our patients! Greater Charlotte Oral and Facial Surgery, 10935 Winds Crossing Dr. Suite 400, Charlotte, NC 28273 : (980) 332-7990 : greatercharlotteoralsurgery.com : 11/3/2025 : Related Terms: dental implants Charlotte NC :
Congratulations on taking the first step towards a healthy and beautiful smile with your recent oral graft! We know that undergoing any surgical procedure can be daunting, and the recovery process can sometimes feel overwhelming. But rest assured, with proper care and attention, you'll be back to your usual routines in no time.