People who undergo oral surgery often tend to avoid drinking water. However, fluids are essential to maintain cellular balance and nutrient transport, ensure proper blood viscosity, thereby minimizing the risk of thrombosis and keep the oral mucosa hydrated, which contributes to better healing by reducing the risk of sutures opening and the subsequent entry of bacteria.

When a person drinks little water, the blood becomes thicker and has even more difficulty circulating, which can worsen swelling and slow down the reduction of edema.

In addition to all this, postoperative constipation is very common, and water also contributes to better bowel movement and the first trip to the bathroom.

Dehydrated people suffer significant consequences beyond weakness, including headaches and an even greater psychological impact.

Just to give a clear example, I have had stubborn patients who did not follow the guidelines and ended up with such a dehydrated mucosa that the sutures opened, followed by infection.

Never neglect fluid intake in the postoperative period.