Friday, September 10, 2010

Cope After Mouth Surgery

Mouth surgery can be a necessary option in order for a person to become healthy again. Surgery on the mouth is performed for a variety of reasons, including mouth cancer and removing wisdom teeth. However, mouth surgery can be a painful experience. So read on and find ways to make yourself comfortable.


Instructions


1. Prepare a spot in your home that is comfortable for when you arrive home, such as a couch or your bed. A lot of time will be spent there during the recovery process. Put blankets on the couch, and have things brought to your "comfy spot" like books, crossword puzzles and the remote for the TV.








2. Keep a phone nearby in case you need something. Friends may also wish to call and see how you are doing. If they offer to help in any way, accept it. Recovering from surgery is hard enough. You shouldn't have to do all your housework or cooking by yourself.


3. Arrange for your parents or a close friend to take the children for a day or two while you recuperate.


4. Eat soft foods while recovering from mouth surgery. For example, eat jello, ice cream, mashed potatoes or soup. These foods will be gentle on the mouth, whereas harder foods like chips or popcorn could hurt the mouth. Drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated, but stay away from sugary drinks such as pop.


5. Take pain medication if it is prescribed by your doctor. This will alleviate the pain associated with mouth surgery. If the doctor did not prescribe a painkiller, over the counter medicines like ibuprofen or acetaminophen work just fine. Be sure to only take the prescribed amount on the bottle, and if the pain is too much, call your doctor for a prescription.

Tags: mouth surgery, your doctor