Guidelines for maintaining oral health and promoting healing after dental surgery.

Post-surgical oral care is critical for proper healing. General guidelines include: avoiding smoking (delays healing significantly), not using straws (can dislodge blood clots), eating soft foods, and gentle rinsing with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery. Pain management typically involves prescribed or over-the-counter medications. Swelling peaks at 48-72 hours and can be managed with cold compresses. Follow your surgeon's specific instructions carefully.