Nutrition plays a critical role in enhancing postoperative recovery and minimizing complications in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This systematic review evaluates the impact of various nutrients and dietary interventions on tissue regeneration, immune response, and overall healing following surgical procedures. By understanding the connection between nutrition and recovery, oral surgeons can implement dietary strategies to optimize patient outcomes. The review highlights key nutritional factors such as protein, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and hydration, and discusses clinical evidence supporting their role in improving healing rates and reducing complications.

Postoperative healing is influenced by a multitude of factors, with nutrition emerging as a pivotal element in the recovery process. Surgical interventions in the oral and maxillofacial region often involve trauma to hard and soft tissues, which necessitates efficient and effective healing to minimize complications such as infection, delayed recovery, or wound dehiscence. The nutritional status of patients has been increasingly recognized as a determinant of surgical success, impacting the duration of the healing process and the overall outcomes [1].

Nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids are fundamental in promoting tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and enhancing immune responses. Protein, for instance, plays a direct role in collagen synthesis, which is critical for wound closure and structural integrity. Vitamins such as vitamin C and A facilitate antioxidant activity and cellular repair, while zinc accelerates epithelialization and bone formation.

The global burden of malnutrition, even in developed countries, highlights the need to evaluate and address nutritional deficiencies prior to and following surgery. Oral surgeons are uniquely positioned to guide their patients toward appropriate dietary modifications or supplements that can facilitate improved recovery. This review systematically examines the available evidence on the role of nutrition in enhancing postoperative healing in oral surgery patients [2].

A systematic review of peer-reviewed articles was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The search strategy involved the use of keywords including "oral surgery healing," "nutrition and wound healing," "postoperative recovery and diet," and "nutritional supplementation in surgery." Boolean operators such as "AND" and "OR" were employed to refine search results and ensure comprehensive coverage of the literature.

The inclusion criteria encompassed studies published between 2010 and 2025 that examined the relationship between nutritional interventions and postoperative healing in oral or maxillofacial surgery. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and meta-analyses were prioritized for their robust methodology and high level of evidence. Studies that focused on general surgery or non-oral surgical procedures were excluded unless they provided insights directly translatable to oral surgery.

Data extraction was conducted independently by two reviewers to ensure consistency and reliability. Key data points included study design, sample size, type of nutritional intervention, measured outcomes, and statistical significance. Discrepancies were resolved through consensus or consultation with a third reviewer. A risk of bias assessment was performed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool to evaluate the quality and reliability of the included studies.

The systematic review identified 42 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The findings revealed that nutritional interventions consistently enhanced postoperative healing outcomes across various oral and maxillofacial procedures. High-protein diets and amino acid supplementation, particularly with arginine and glutamine, were associated with accelerated wound closure, reduced infection rates, and improved tissue strength. One randomized controlled trial demonstrated a 25?ster healing rate in patients receiving 30g of additional protein daily compared to controls.  Vitamin supplementation, especially with vitamin C and A, played a significant role in collagen synthesis, epithelial regeneration, and immune enhancement. Meta-analyses indicated that patients taking 1g of vitamin C daily experienced 30?wer wound infections and faster tissue repair. Zinc supplementation (15-30mg daily) was linked to improved bone formation and wound closure, with notable benefits observed in patients undergoing bone grafting procedures. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation emerged as a powerful tool in reducing postoperative inflammation and swelling. Clinical trials reported a 40% reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced subjective recovery outcomes in patients receiving 2g of omega-3 post-surgery. Additionally, omega-3 intake promoted vascularization at the surgical site, further accelerating tissue regeneration. Hydration and electrolyte balance were shown to significantly influence postoperative outcomes. Patients who maintained adequate hydration levels preoperatively exhibited a 20% reduction in complications such as dry socket and delayed healing. Oral rehydration solutions containing balanced electrolytes were recommended as part of standard postoperative care protocols to enhance cellular repair and lower the risk of surgical site infections.

The findings reinforce the critical role of nutrition in enhancing postoperative healing in oral surgery. Proteins and amino acids play a foundational role by promoting collagen synthesis, facilitating tissue repair, and supporting immune function, which directly influences wound healing and reduces the likelihood of complications [3]. Vitamin C and zinc are essential for their roles in enhancing collagen production and epithelial regeneration, with numerous studies showcasing their ability to reduce wound infections and expedite recovery. Omega-3 fatty acids contribute to reducing inflammation and promoting vascularization, allowing for improved tissue perfusion and regeneration at the surgical site [4.5]. From a clinical perspective, incorporating nutritional strategies into preoperative and postoperative care protocols can lead to better patient outcomes, reduced hospitalization times, and lower healthcare costs. However, patient adherence to dietary recommendations poses a challenge. Socioeconomic factors, limited access to supplements, and variability in nutritional education can affect compliance and outcomes [6]. Surgeons should actively collaborate with dietitians to create personalized nutrition plans that cater to the specific needs of each patient. Implementing nutritional counseling as part of routine preoperative assessment can enhance patient understanding and commitment to dietary modifications. Additionally, more research is needed to develop standardized perioperative nutritional protocols that account for the metabolic demands of different oral surgical procedures [7-10].

Optimal nutrition is a cornerstone of successful postoperative recovery in oral surgery. By incorporating evidence-based dietary strategies and supplementation, clinicians can significantly improve healing rates and patient satisfaction. This review underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach that integrates nutrition into the overall treatment plan for oral surgical patients [11].