The Dos And Don’ts of Wisdom Tooth Extraction Aftercare

Wisdom teeth, known as third molars, typically develop in our late teens or early twenties. While some people may not experience any issues with these late-blooming molars, many face problems such as pain, crowding, and infections. In these cases, the recommended course of action is wisdom tooth extraction, a procedure to preserve oral health and provide relief. However, the extraction itself is just the beginning of the journey to recovery, and how you care for your mouth afterward can significantly affect the healing process. This blog will discuss the dos and don’ts of wisdom tooth extraction aftercare, including tips on pain management, oral hygiene, and diet.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

The recovery time after wisdom tooth extraction varies from person to person and depends on the complexity of the extraction. According to the search results, it usually takes three to four days to recover from wisdom tooth extraction. However, if the teeth were impacted, it could take up to two weeks to heal. 

During this time, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising of the cheek, stiffness and soreness of the jaw, pain, an unpleasant taste in your mouth, and tingling or numbness of your face, lips, or tongue. It is essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions and report any unusual symptoms to your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.

While you can return to your normal, day-to-day routine after just a few days, it will take up to two weeks to fully heal and recover from a wisdom tooth extraction.

Do: Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions

Your Plano dentist will provide specific post-operative instructions after your wisdom tooth extraction. These instructions are tailored to your unique case and should be followed diligently. They may include details on pain management, wound care, and dietary restrictions. Ignoring or deviating from these instructions can lead to complications and delayed healing.

Do: Rest and Relax

Resting and relaxing for the next few days is crucial after wisdom tooth extraction. However, that doesn’t mean you need to be completely bedridden. You can move around, but avoid strenuous activities that may cause bleeding or swelling.

Do: Elevate Your Head

Elevating your head while resting will help reduce the swelling you experience. Use a couple of soft pillows to elevate your head while you’re trying to get some rest.

Do: Use Ice Packs

Using ice packs for the first 24 to 48 hours following extraction can help reduce your pain and minimize your swelling. Apply cold compresses to the affected area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off whenever you are awake.

Do: Bite Down on Gauze

Biting down on gauze for the first hour or two following surgery can encourage clotting and aid in stopping the bleeding.

Do: Keep It Clean

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial during your recovery. However, it would help if you were gentle when brushing and flossing near the surgical site. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, especially in the first 24 hours. Instead, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water after meals to promote healing and prevent infection.

Do: Manage Pain and Swelling

Pain and swelling are common after wisdom tooth extraction. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication to help manage your discomfort. Additionally, using ice packs and elevating your head can help reduce swelling.

Do: Drink Plenty of Fluids

Staying hydrated is important after wisdom tooth extraction. Drink fluids, especially water, to help your body repair itself. However, avoid using a straw, as the suction could disturb the surgical site and cause a painful condition called a dry socket.

Do: Eat Soft Foods

Eat soft foods for the first few days after the tooth extraction. You may rely on your dentist to offer you nutritious meals and snacks as you recover. Slowly transition to harder foods as you begin to heal.

Don’t: Neglect Proper Oral Hygiene

Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, especially in the first 24 hours. Instead, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water after meals to promote healing and prevent infection.

Don’t: Engage in Strenuous Exercise

Avoid engaging in strenuous exercise for the first 72 hours after surgery. Get plenty of rest and avoid physical exertion that may cause bleeding or swelling.

Don’t: Use A Straw

Using a straw is a bad idea after wisdom tooth extraction, as the suction could disturb the surgical site and cause a painful condition called dry socket.

Don’t Eat Sticky or Crunchy Foods

Avoid eating sticky or crunchy foods for the first few days after surgery, as they can irritate the surgical site and cause bleeding.

Wisdom tooth extraction is a serious oral surgery; proper aftercare is crucial for a speedy recovery. Following your dentist’s instructions, resting and relaxing, using ice packs, and maintaining good oral hygiene are all important steps in recovery. Additionally, managing pain and swelling, staying hydrated, and eating soft foods can help you feel better and heal faster. Following these dos and don’ts of wisdom tooth extraction aftercare can ensure a smooth and successful recovery.