What can I expect after the surgery?

Swelling: After the surgery, swelling is a normal occurrence and will not reach its maximum until 2-3 days. It can be minimized by using a cold pack, ice bag or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel and applied firmly to the cheek adjacent to the surgical area. During the first 24 hours after surgery, this should be applied twenty minutes on and twenty minutes off.

Persistent Bleeding: Bleeding should never be severe. If so, it usually means that the packs are being clenched between teeth only and are not exerting pressure on the surgical areas. Try repositioning the packs. If bleeding persists sit upright or in a recliner. Also, you can use ice packs and bite on gauze for 1 hour or on a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes. The tannic acid in the tea leaves helps to promote blood clotting. If bleeding remains uncontrolled, you should contact your dentist.