Your Guide To a Smooth Recovery
Congratulations!! You’ve made it through your wisdom tooth extraction! Following these post-op instructions will ensure a smooth, comfortable recovery and help you avoid complications.
The First 24 Hours: Critical care
Bite gently on Gauze: Hold the gauze in place by gently closing your teeth on it, keeping steady pressure for around 30-45 minutes. It is the most important for controlling bleeding and to help with clotting.
Swelling is normal: Expect some swelling in and around your checks and jaws. Place an ice pack on the affected side of your face for 20 minutes, then remove it for the next 20 minutes. The sooner you start, the more effective it will be.
Control the pain: Follow your dentist’s orders for the prescribed pain meds. It is recommended to take it along with a small amount of food. Never wait for the pain to become severe before taking your next dose.
Rest, Rest, Rest: Elevate your head with pillows while resting. Avoid strenuous exercises and heavy lifting for the next 48 hours after Wisdom tooth Extraction.
Food Recovery Rules After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Soft foods only: For the first 24 hours, stick to a soft, liquid diet. Think yogurt, mashed potatoes, soups and smoothies.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using a straw (sucking on the straw can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket).
Gentle Oral Care: Don’t mess with the extraction site for 24 hours. Avoid spitting vigorously. Gently brush around the extraction site.
Salt water rinses: After the first 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. Prepare the solution by mixing ½ spoon salt in a cup of warm water.
Day 2-7 and Beyond: The Healing Process
As the initial discomfort subsides, you’ll gradually get back to your normal routine.
Gradual diet progression: As you feel more comfortable, slowly start reintroducing your solid foods. Avoid anything crunchy, spicy or hard.
No smoking or Alcohol: It can severely delay the healing and increase the risk of complications like dry socket. Avoid them for at least a week.
Stitches: If they’re dissolvable, they’ll fall out in a week or two. If you have the non-dissolvable ones, you’ll have a follow-up appointment for the Wisdom tooth extraction
Dentist Alert!! When to call
Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop after a few hours of applying pressure. Severe throbbing pain that is not relieved by your pain meds.
Infection: A fever above 101^ F, chills, or swelling on steroids. Difficulty swallowing or breathing. Numbness in your lip, tongue, or chin that persists for more than 24 hours.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1 – 2: Swelling, Discomfort, Minor bleeding – Normal
- Day 3 – 4: Things start getting comfortable
- Day 7 – 10: The discomfort finally goes and complete recovery is achieved.
Read More About Teeth Functions
By following these post-op instructions, you’re giving your body the best chance to heal quickly from wisdom tooth extraction. A little extra care now will lead to a successful and speedy recovery.
