The holidays are a time when having fun and spending time around family and friends is the norm, but if you’re recovering from oral surgery, it can be difficult to embrace these moments. Fortunately, a dentist in East York is here to provide a few helpful tips that will allow you to recover successfully while enjoying the festivities this season. Read on to learn what you can do after undergoing dental implant placement or wisdom tooth extraction during your holiday break.
Get Plenty of Rest
After undergoing oral surgery of any kind, you can expect to feel a bit groggy in the first 24 hours. This is largely due to the anesthesia and sedation you received. It is best if you spend the first few days getting plenty of rest at home before engaging in any strenuous physical activity or exercise. Because you’ll likely be eating and drinking less in these first few days, doing too much too soon can lead to increased swelling and dizziness, making it more difficult to adequately recover.
Consider Your Travel Plans
When preparing to have your wisdom teeth extracted or dental implants put into place, consider the timeline, especially if you are planning to travel for the holidays. It is recommended that you wait a few days after your surgery to travel by car or train. It may be longer before you can safely travel by plane, as the increased cabin pressure can pose a problem. If you are planning to go out of town, spend the initial days at home using a cold compress to reduce swelling, and make sure to bring a few ice packs with you on your trip.
Eat Soft Foods
It may be tempting to eat your mom or grandma’s favorite dishes, but if they tend to be coarser, you should pass and instead, opt for softer food options. Mashed potatoes, eggs, yogurt, applesauce, stuffing, and soup are great alternatives as well as protein shakes. Chewing can be difficult in the beginning, so to avoid additional pressure on these already sensitive and tender areas, give your bone, gums, and teeth a rest and choose foods that require minimal chewing. As the days pass, you may be able to incorporate firmer options into your diet.
Engage in Alternative Games and Activities
If your family enjoys running a 5K or engaging in physical activities, you may need to sit them out this time around. As unfortunate as it may be, your body needs to rest as much as possible after oral surgery. Instead, bring or recommend board or card games that the whole family can enjoy.
By considering these tips, you can better prepare for the days following your oral surgery and still enjoy time spent with the ones you love this holiday season.