Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, but the recovery process is just as important as the surgery itself. Taking the right steps during your wisdom teeth removal recovery can make a big difference in how quickly you heal.
Proper wisdom tooth surgery recovery involves managing pain, eating the right foods, and maintaining good aftercare practices to avoid complications. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about your wisdom teeth extraction aftercare, including tips for pain management, what to eat, and how to ensure proper healing.
What to Expect Post Wisdom Tooth Extraction
After undergoing wisdom teeth removal, it’s normal to experience a few symptoms while your body heals. Understanding what’s typical during wisdom tooth surgery recovery can help ease your concerns and allow you to focus on getting better.
Typical Symptoms After Removal
Pain after Wisdom Tooth Extraction
It’s common to experience some pain or discomfort following the procedure, especially in the first few days. After all, you just had something that used to be part of your mouth removed. You may feel mild to moderate pain, which can typically be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications.
Swelling
Swelling around the cheeks and jaw area is also normal and usually peaks within the first 48 hours after the procedure. Applying cold compresses can help alleviate some of the swelling during the initial recovery phase.
Bleeding
Light bleeding or oozing is common right after surgery, but it should subside within a few hours. Biting down on gauze pads can help control the bleeding. If bleeding persists beyond the initial hours, it’s important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
Normal Recovery Timeline
The recovery time for wisdom teeth removal can vary depending on a variety of factors. While we’d recommend talking to your dentist for more detailed advice, as a general guideline:
First 1-2 days:
3-7 days:
1-2 weeks:
Pain Management for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Proper pain management is a key part of your wisdom teeth removal recovery. The goal is to manage your symptoms in a way that promotes healing without causing further discomfort.
Medications For Wisdom Tooth Pain
Your dentist will likely prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (e.g Nurofen) or paracetamol (e.g Panadol) to help reduce pain after wisdom tooth extraction. Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully for the correct dosage and schedule.
Cold Compresses
To reduce swelling and alleviate pain, cold compresses are a great option in the first 48 hours after surgery. Apply a cold pack to your face for 15-20 minutes, with 20-minute breaks in between. This helps reduce inflammation and numbs the area, offering some relief.
What to Eat After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
Eating the right foods plays a vital role in your wisdom teeth extraction aftercare. Opting for soft, nutritious foods will support your healing process and make it easier to manage discomfort.
Foods to Eat
After wisdom teeth removal, it’s best to stick to soft, cool foods that won’t irritate the surgical site. Some of the best options include:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Smooth soups (without chunks)
- Rice, noodles etc
Hydration is equally important, drink plenty of water throughout your recovery, but avoid using straws, as the suction could dislodge the blood clot and lead to complications.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods can delay your wisdom teeth removal recovery or irritate the extraction site, so be sure to avoid the following:
- Hard, crunchy, or chewy foods like chips, nuts, and popcorn.
- Spicy foods that may cause discomfort.
- Hot foods and drinks should be avoided until the anaesthetic wears off.
- Alcohol, which can interfere with healing and pain medication – consumption of alcohol can lead to dry socket which can cause pain after wisdom tooth extraction
Oral Hygiene During Recovery
Maintaining oral hygiene during wisdom teeth removal recovery is crucial for avoiding infection and ensuring a smooth healing process. However, your usual routine will need to be adjusted for the first few days.
Brushing and Rinsing
While you can brush your teeth, avoid brushing directly around the extraction site during the first 24 hours. After this initial period, you can gently brush your teeth, taking care around the healing areas. Your dentist might recommend saltwater rinses to keep your mouth clean but avoid mouthwash with alcohol for the first two weeks.
There should be no spitting or rinsing for 24 hours following the procedure to avoid blood clot dislodgement – doing so can lead to a painful dry socket.
Resuming Regular Care
After 1-2 days, you can return to your regular oral hygiene routine. However, be gentle and avoid disturbing the healing gums for the first week or so.
Signs of Complications
While most people experience a straightforward recovery from wisdom teeth removal, it’s important to be aware of possible complications. Here are a few signs that something might be wrong:
Infection
Increased pain, redness, or pus near the extraction site could be a sign of infection. Fever or a bad odour from the mouth can also indicate an infection.
Dry Socket
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges or dissolves too soon, exposing bone. Symptoms include severe pain a few days after surgery, often radiating from the extraction site.
Prolonged Bleeding
Some bleeding in the first few hours is normal, but persistent or heavy bleeding beyond this time could be a sign that something isn’t right. Contact your dentist if bleeding continues, especially if you are on medications that may thin your blood.
When to Contact a Dentist
If you experience any of the above symptoms or feel that your recovery isn’t progressing as expected, reach out to your dentist or oral surgeon for guidance.
Tips for Speeding Up Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery
Though wisdom tooth surgery recovery requires patience, there are things you can do to speed up the process and make your healing as comfortable as possible.
Rest and Hydration
Make sure to rest and stay hydrated during your recovery. Getting enough sleep and drinking plenty of water helps your body heal faster. Avoid physically demanding activities like heavy lifting or exercise, as these can put stress on your recovery.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and drinking can interfere with your recovery by slowing healing and increasing the risk of complications such as dry socket. It’s best to avoid these for at least a week after surgery to give your body the best chance to heal properly.
Other Considerations
How long does wisdom teeth recovery take?
The recovery time for wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but most individuals feel much better within 1-2 weeks. Complete healing of the gum tissue may take weeks thereafter.
When can I go back to work or school?
Typically, you can return to work or school within 3-4 days, but if your job or school activities are physically demanding, you may want to take a full week off to ensure a full recovery.
By following the proper wisdom tooth surgery recovery guidelines and being mindful of your wisdom teeth extraction aftercare, you can recover quickly and comfortably. Pay attention to pain levels, eat soft foods, maintain good oral hygiene, and take the time you need to heal properly. And if you notice any signs of complications, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for advice.
