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Signs You Have an Infection Following Oral Surgery


Posted on 10/10/2019 by Manhattan Maxillofacial Surgery Group
Signs You Have an Infection Following Oral SurgeryThere is a myriad of reasons that people need to have oral surgery, caused by any number of oral and tooth infections or related issues. Most of these problems result in inflammation in the mouth, which make surgery an ultimate necessity. Oral surgery can involve a tooth extraction or root canal on one or multiple teeth, depending on the severity of the impacted areas.

The procedures involved, are aimed at eradication of infections, but there are occasions when complications during surgery occur. These can result in infections and further inflammation, that will require individuals to seek further medical attention.

Despite the naturally induced bacteria in our bodies, some of them can be harmful and even more so when our immune systems are compromised by a chronic illness such as diabetes or heart disease, in which case the potential risks for post-surgery infections increases.

Post-Surgery Expectations

Immediately after surgery, at least for a few hours, you will more than likely still be under anesthesia, and numb to any pain. It's important that you cautiously eat and drink during these initial hours post-surgery and avoid eating solid foods all together for the first 24 hours. Try yogurts, warm soups or blended smoothies. In addition, you will be provided with pain medication, with a medical recommendation to only ingest them when you are experiencing severe levels of pain.

The area of surgery will be extremely sensitive and brushing your teeth in that area is highly inadvisable. If you are given a mouth wash, it's important that you use it daily for as long as your dental professional advises. It's also a good suggestion to gargle warm saltwater in your mouth, to reduce inflammation and pain.

When You Should Be Concerned
Post-Surgery complications are rare, and typically only occur with patients who have a compromised or weakened immune system. One major cause of concern is persistent bleeding in the area of surgery for more than 24 hours. It's normal to see some small amounts of blood during the first few hours, but anything beyond should be immediately addressed by a medical professional. Other causes of concern are an intense pain that feels like throbbing, fever, increased swelling in your face or gums, and in some cases a discharge of pus with a slight odor.

If you are someone who has a weakened immune system or past medical complications, it's important that you disclose that with your dental provider prior to surgery. If you think you need surgery, and want more information, feel free to contact us and we'll be glad to answer your questions and schedule you for an initial consultation to weigh your options.
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