Are you gearing up to have oral surgery? If you’re having a procedure, we promise you that you’re in the safest possible hands. Here are 4 tips to help you minimise pain:

1. Taking painkillers: after a surgical procedure, your dentist may recommend taking painkillers. If you’re in pain, don’t try and tough it out. Taking medication will help to alleviate discomfort and make you feel more comfortable and relaxed.

2. Follow cleaning instructions: your dentist will give you advice about keeping your mouth clean after the procedure. This is important to reduce the risk of infection, but your gums may be tender, so you’ll need to take care.

3. Apply ice: if your gums are swollen or sore, applying an ice pack to the affected area of the mouth can help to reduce inflammation and ease pain. Make sure you wrap your ice pack in a cloth or small towel to prevent direct contact with the skin.

4. Call your dentist if you have any worries: if you suddenly experience pain, your pain is getting worse or you start to feel unwell after surgery, call your dentist. They can have a good look at you and check that everything is healing as expected.