Tips for Wisdom Tooth Removal Aftercare and a Speedy Recovery
Reviewed by Dr. Kalpesh Patel 5 min Read
Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure, but proper aftercare is essential for a smooth and speedy recovery. Following the right procedures can help reduce discomfort, prevent complications, and promote healing. Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your mouth after wisdom teeth extraction.
1. Relieve swelling and discomfort
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process and usually peaks within 48 hours. To reduce swelling:
- Keep your head elevated while resting to minimize fluid retention.
- Apply ice packs to each cheek for 15 to 20 minutes for the first 24 hours.
- After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses to promote circulation and healing.
- Take prescription or over-the-counter pain medications as recommended by your dentist.
2. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
It is important to keep your mouth clean, but be careful not to injure the surgical site.
- Avoid brushing or rinsing your teeth for the first 24 hours.
- After the first day, gently rinse the area with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 1 cup warm water) to keep the area clean.
- Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site to prevent irritation.
- Do not use mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as they can cause discomfort and slow healing.
3. Pay attention to your diet
Diet plays an important role in your recovery. Consuming the wrong foods can irritate the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot, resulting in a dry socket.
Suggested foods:
- Soft foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce.
- Blended soups and broths (make sure they are lukewarm, not hot).
- Scrambled eggs, porridge, smoothies (avoid using a straw).
Foods to avoid:
- Hot, spicy, or crunchy foods which may irritate the area.
- Hard foods such as nuts and chips which may cause injury.
- Carbonated or alcoholic drinks which may impair healing.
4. Avoid Harmful Habits
Certain habits can slow the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products for at least 72 hours, as this can cause a dry socket.
- Avoid using straws, as suction can dislodge the protective blood clot.
- Avoid excessive exercise for the first few days to prevent bleeding and swelling
5. Watch for the warning signs
Some discomfort and swelling are normal, but look out for signs that may indicate a problem:
- Continued bleeding that doesn’t stop after several hours.
- Severe pain that gets worse instead of better.
- Signs of infection such as fever, pus, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
- Symptoms of a dry socket include severe pain and an unpleasant odor at the extraction site.
Conclusion
Proper aftercare after wisdom teeth extraction is essential for a smooth recovery. Keeping swelling under control, maintaining good oral hygiene, eating a soft diet, and avoiding harmful habits can help you recover faster and reduce the risk of complications.
Active Dental Flower Mound offers expert care and advice throughout your recovery. If you have any concerns after your wisdom teeth extraction, schedule a follow-up appointment with us today.
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