Signs of Infection After Oral Surgery and What to Do

Recovery can be confusing—one day, you’re fine, and the next, you’re sore and worried. If you’ve recently had oral surgery and something doesn’t feel right, it’s important to know what’s expected and what’s not. From odd swelling to lingering pain, we’ll help you spot the signs of infection early and guide you on what to do next.

Common Types of Oral Surgeries

Oral surgery isn’t always major. Some procedures are quick; others are more complex. Here are some of the most common types of people:

• Tooth extraction (including wisdom teeth)
• Dental implants
• Gum surgery
• Jaw surgery
• Root-end surgery (also known as apicoectomy)
• Biopsies or removal of oral lesions

Each of these comes with its own recovery process. But no matter which one you had, your mouth needs time and care to heal.

Normal vs. Abnormal Healing

So, how can you tell if your healing is on track?

What’s normal:

• Mild to moderate swelling for up to 3 days
• Some pain that gets better, not worse
• A small amount of bleeding or oozing on the first day
• Bruising on the cheek or jaw area
• A low-grade temperature (under 100.4°F)

What’s not normal:

• Increasing pain after the third day
• Swelling that gets worse or doesn’t improve.
• High fever
• Pus or thick discharge from the surgical site
• Bad taste or smell that won’t go away

Your body knows how to heal, but it also signals when something’s wrong. Trust that.

Signs of Infection After Oral Surgery

Infections don’t always happen, but when they do, the signs are clear—if you know what to look for.

Watch out for:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t ease or keep you awake
• Fever above 100.4°F
• Swelling that spreads instead of going down.
• Pus or cloudy fluid coming from the area
• A foul smell or taste that lingers
• Difficulty opening your mouth (trismus)
• Lymph nodes that are swollen in the neck or under the jaw

If you notice one or more of these signs, don’t wait. It’s time to take action and let Dr. Cecilia Sorelle evaluate your symptoms to keep your recovery on track.

Causes and Risk Factors for Infection

Why do some people get infections while others heal without a problem? It often comes down to these factors:

• Poor oral hygiene before or after surgery
• Smoking, which slows healing
• Diabetes or other health conditions that affect immunity
• Not taking prescribed antibiotics (or stopping too early)
• Food debris stuck in the surgical site.
• Not following your dentist’s instructions.

Even if you’re careful, infection can still happen. Knowing the cause helps you respond better if it does.

What to Do If You Suspect an Infection

First, don’t panic. Infections sound scary, but most can be treated quickly when caught early.

Here’s what you should do:

• Call your dentist. Let them know exactly what’s going on.
• Describe your symptoms clearly. Mention how long you’ve had pain, swelling, fever, or discharge.
• Don’t self-treat. Avoid rinsing with random mouthwashes or applying home remedies unless your dentist recommends it.
• Keep the area clean. Brush the surrounding teeth, but don’t poke the surgical site.
• Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol. These make things worse.

Searching for a dentist nearby or a dentist in Tampa, FL (if you are from that area), who takes your concerns seriously? You deserve someone with a trusted approach that’s both professional and kind.

Treatment Options for Oral Infections

Treatment will rely on the type and severity of the infection. Your dentist may recommend:

• Antibiotics to fight the infection
• Cleaning and draining the surgical site
• Pain relievers to reduce swelling and make you more comfortable
• Cleansing with saltwater to keep the area clean (only when advised)

In rare situations, an infection might spread or lead to an abscess, requiring extra treatment. But in most cases, things get better quickly once it’s taken care of. If you’re unsure or symptoms worsen, don’t wait—reach out to a dentist near you to get the right care before it becomes more serious.

How to Prevent Infection After Oral Surgery

A little preparation goes a long way. Take the right steps, and you’ll lower your risk of post-op problems.

Here’s what helps most:

• Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions closely
• Keep the area clean without disturbing it
• Use prescribed rinses at the right time
• Avoid chewing on the surgical side
• Drink plenty of water
• Skip the alcohol, smoking, and spicy food while healing
• Get rest—your body needs it to recover

If you’re from Tampa and are looking for a dental clinic in Tampa that offers detailed aftercare and follow-ups, WestBay Dental makes sure you’re not left wondering what’s next.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let doubts slow down your healing. If something doesn’t feel right after surgery, act fast. The sooner you reach out, the sooner you’ll feel better. For trusted care and clear answers, schedule a visit with WestBay Dental – Tampa today. We perform oral surgery in Tampa, among other services. Your comfort matters—and we’re here to make sure your recovery stays on track.