Oral surgeries tend to be minimally invasive procedures, which means patients usually have a quick and easy recovery. However, patients should still be aware of complications. For instance, infections can occur after your surgery, slowing down your recovery and possibly even impacting your health. Luckily though, there are some clear warning signs that you can look out for. Here are 5 signs of an oral surgery infection.
1- Pain That Gets Worse
Of course, a little pain is to be expected after your oral surgery. However, this pain should get progressively better with each passing day. If you develop new or worsening pain, then call your oral surgeon.
2- Persistent Bleeding/Swelling
A little bleeding and swelling are also normal right after surgery. Like pain, these symptoms should get progressively better each day. Call your oral surgeon if you are still bleeding 24 hours post-surgery, or if your bleeding gets worse. You should also get advice if you still have swelling after 3 days.
3- Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
Sometimes, swelling isn’t visible by looking at the face. If you have problems opening your mouth, then you might have swelling at the surgery site. Seek medical attention if this swelling lasts for more than 3 days, or if it suddenly gets worse.
4- Pus at the Surgery Site
A small amount of blood is the only thing that you should see around your surgery site. Pus at the surgery site is a clear sign of infection, so seek medical help if you notice this.
5- Fever and other Classic Infection Symptoms
Most signs of an oral surgery infection happen in and around the mouth. However, an infection can also impact other parts of the body. This is especially true as the infection spreads and your body must work to fight it off. Call your doctor/oral surgeon if you develop a fever, chills, a headache, body aches, and/or swollen lymph nodes.
Caring for an Oral Surgery Infection
If you have an oral surgery infection, then it’s important to see an oral surgeon. They can evaluate the problem, offer treatments, and help you stay on track during your recovery. Don’t wait until the problem becomes severe to seek help! If you have signs of an infection, call Rock Creek Oral Surgery today.