Alveoloplasty Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for alveoloplasty: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
Alveoloplasty recovery, day by day
Bleeding Control
- Bite on gauze firmly for 45-60 minutes
- Replace gauze as needed until bleeding slows to oozing
- Slight blood-tinged saliva is normal for 24-48 hours
Clot Protection
- Do NOT spit, use straws, or rinse for 24 hours
- No smoking for at least 72 hours
- Avoid hot liquids for the first 24 hours
Pain & Swelling
- Take prescribed medication before numbness fades
- Ice: 20 min on, 20 min off
- Keep head elevated
Diet
- Soft/liquid diet: soups, smoothies, mashed potatoes
- Gradually add soft solid foods as comfort allows
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods
Hygiene
- Gentle warm salt water rinses starting day 2
- Avoid brushing near the surgical site for the first 3-5 days
- Brush other teeth normally
Healing & Prosthetics
- Bone should be smoothing and gum tissue healing over
- If surgery was done for denture prep, your dentist will advise when fitting can begin
- Resume normal diet and oral care as comfortable
Medications you may be given
Ibuprofen 600mg
Take 1 tablet 3 times daily with food
Amoxicillin 500mg
Take 1 capsule 3 times daily until finished
Always follow the exact directions your own provider gives you. This is general information, not a prescription.
When to call your provider or 911
- •Fever above 101°F that doesn't respond to medication
- •Uncontrolled bleeding lasting more than 4 hours despite gauze pressure
- •Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication
- •Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- •Numbness that persists beyond 24 hours
- •Foul taste/odor indicating possible infection
- •Pus or discharge from the surgical site
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 7
Swelling resolves
Most swelling gone, soft foods tolerated
- Day 7
Bone smoothing
Ridge is smoothing and gums healing
- Day 14
Ready for prosthetics
Dentist evaluates readiness for denture fitting
For clinics
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