Pain management is a crucial component of oral surgery that can significantly impact recovery. When done right, pain management can make all the difference in a patient’s post-operative experience. Whether you’re getting a wisdom tooth removed, dental implant surgery, or a simple extraction, the best oral surgeon in Aventura pulled together several techniques to help manage pain in oral surgery to ease your discomfort.
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How to Manage Pain in Oral Surgery
Pre-Operative Pain Management
Your oral surgeon will discuss pain management options with you before surgery. These options include medication, such as prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers, depending on the severity of the anticipated pain. Furthermore, another option is relaxation techniques, including deep breathing, visualization, or meditation, to alleviate stress and reduce anxiety.
Intra-Operative Pain Management
During surgery, your oral surgeon will use anesthesia to numb the area being operated on. While general anesthesia will knock you out during the procedure, local anesthetic agents will numb the affected area. It’s important to note that most oral surgeons use local anesthesia because it allows the patient to remain conscious while minimizing pain.
Post-Operative Pain Management
After surgery, your oral surgeon will give you a list of instructions for pain management. These instructions indicate a list of medications, home remedies, and follow-up care.
While you can always purchase over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen, your oral surgeon may also prescribe pain relievers, such as narcotics or non-narcotics. Following the doctor’s prescribed dosage and frequency allows you to avoid complications.
Home Remedies for Pain Management
In addition to medication, your oral surgeon may recommend home remedies to ease pain and discomfort after oral surgery. For instance, they may instruct you to gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation and keep the treated area clean.
They may also advise you to apply ice to the affected area to reduce swelling and numb the pain. Moreover, they’ll recommend sticking to soft foods like soups, broths, mashed potatoes, and smoothies because they’re easier to eat and less painful than crunchy or hard foods. Finally, they’ll suggest sleeping with your head elevated to minimize inflammation.
Looking for an Oral Surgeon in Aventura?
At Oral Facial Reconstruction, we provide high-quality care in a clean, relaxing, and professional environment. Contact us today to make an appointment.
