Possible Complications After Oral Surgery

After oral surgery, the most common complications include:

• Bleeding.
• Infection.
• Swelling.
• Pain.
• Delayed healing.
• Reactions to anesthesia.

Specific complications can arise depending on the type of surgery performed. At Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa, we prioritize patient safety and provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize the risk of complications.

Signs of infection following oral surgery include:

• Persistent or worsening pain.
• Redness and swelling.
• Warmth at the surgery site.
• Fever.
• In some cases, pus or a bad taste in the mouth. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your oral surgeon in Tulsa for evaluation and treatment.

It is normal to experience slight bleeding after oral surgery, but if it persists:

• Apply pressure with a clean gauze pad or a tea bag for 30 minutes.
• If bleeding continues, contact your oral surgeon immediately for further guidance.

Yes, swelling is a typical response to surgery. Swelling usually peaks 48 to 72 hours after surgery and begins to subside afterward. To reduce swelling:

• Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 10 minutes on, followed by 20 minutes off, during the first 24 hours.

Postoperative pain should gradually improve after the first few days. If pain:

• Persists or worsens, it could indicate an infection or dry socket and should be evaluated by your oral surgeon as soon as possible.

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged or dissolves, exposing the underlying bone. Treatment for dry socket includes:

• Cleaning the socket.
• Placing a medicated dressing.
• Prescribing pain medication to manage discomfort.

While reactions to anesthesia are rare, they can occur, especially with sedation or general anesthesia. Reactions may range from:

• Mild (nausea, dizziness).
• Severe (allergic reactions, cardiovascular events).

At Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa, our team is trained to monitor and manage anesthesia risks to ensure patient safety.

Nerve damage can occur during certain oral surgeries, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness or tingling. Most cases of nerve damage are temporary and resolve over time. Your oral surgeon will take precautions to minimize the risk of nerve injury during your procedure.

Sinus complications can arise after procedures in the upper jaw, particularly if the roots of the teeth are close to the sinus cavity. In rare cases, this may result in a communication between the mouth and sinus, requiring additional treatment to close the connection.

Tooth or root fragmentation can occur, especially if the tooth is severely decayed or fractured. In most cases, fragments are removed during surgery. However, some fragments may be left in place if removal poses a risk of further complications. Your oral surgeon will discuss any findings during the procedure.

Complications from bone grafts or dental implants can include:

• Graft failure.
• Infection.
• Implant rejection.

These issues are typically manageable with proper care and monitoring by your Tulsa oral surgeon. If you suspect a complication, contact our office for evaluation.

If you experience any unexpected symptoms, such as:

• Severe pain.
• Prolonged numbness.
• Excessive bleeding.
• Or any other concerns, contact your oral surgeon at Elite Oral Surgery in Tulsa immediately for evaluation and guidance.

Most dental insurance plans cover the treatment of post-surgical complications, but coverage varies depending on the plan. We recommend confirming with your insurance provider, and our team can assist you with any questions regarding coverage.

To minimize your risk of complications:

• Follow postoperative instructions carefully.
• Practice good oral hygiene.
• Maintain a healthy diet.
• Avoid smoking.
• Attend all follow-up appointments with your oral surgeon to monitor your healing process.