Bournemouth Dental Surgery

Why might you need dental surgery?

There are many reasons we might recommend dental surgery and it’s not always as dramatic as it sounds. Sometimes, surgery is the most effective way to resolve pain, prevent infection or preserve your oral health for the future.

Common reasons include:

• Severe tooth decay that can’t be treated with a filling or root canal
• Broken or fractured teeth that can’t be restored
• Infections or abscesses that risk spreading
• Impacted or overcrowded teeth
• Bone loss or gum recession affecting tooth support
• Preparing your mouth for dentures or dental implants

Surgery can sound intimidating, but with the right team and a calm, caring approach, it can be a straightforward step towards a healthier, pain-free smile.

Does dental surgery hurt? How long does it take to recover?

It’s completely natural to be a little nervous, but rest assured, dental surgery is often far more comfortable than people expect.

Thanks to modern techniques and anaesthetic, you won’t feel pain during the procedure, just pressure or movement. If you’re worried or have dental anxiety, we can discuss sedation to help you relax.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery, but many patients feel back to normal within a few days. For more involved procedures, it might take a little longer  but we’ll be there to guide you through a smooth, supported recovery.

When can I eat after dental surgery?

It’s best to wait until the numbness from the anaesthetic has completely worn off before you eat, usually within a few hours after your surgery. Eating too soon can increase the risk of accidentally biting your cheek, tongue or lip so give yourself time to feel sensation again before tucking in.

Once you’re ready to eat, we recommend sticking to soft, cool foods for the first 24 to 48 hours. Think yoghurt, mashed potatoes, soup (not too hot!), smoothies, scrambled eggs and soft pasta. Avoid anything too hot, crunchy, spicy or chewy as your mouth begins to heal.

If you’ve had stitches or a more complex procedure, we might advise sticking to a soft diet for a little longer. We’ll give you personalised aftercare advice to help your recovery go smoothly and we’re always here if you have any questions along the way.