Dos and Donts after Wisdom Tooth Extraction

February 19, 2024, Hampton Village Dentistry

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that many people undergo, but it can also cause some discomfort and complications if you don't follow the proper aftercare instructions.

So, in this blog post, I'm going to share with you some tips and advice on dos and dont’s after wisdom tooth extraction surgery to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

Let's get started!

What is Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Your wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that erupt in your late teens or early twenties. And sometimes, there isn't enough room in your jaw for these teeth to grow in properly. This can cause pain, infection, and other dental issues. So, dentists often recommend extracting wisdom teeth to prevent further problems.

If you've just had wisdom teeth extracted, or are planning to, here are some tips and advice on how to take care of your mouth after having your wisdom teeth removed.

Do’s After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

1. Follow Your Dentist's Advice: Always start by following your dentist or oral surgeon's specific instructions. They know your case best and can give you tailored advice for a smoother recovery.

2. Rest and Take It Easy: Do rest. Your body needs energy to heal. For the first 24 hours, take it easy. Avoid any strenuous activities that might increase bleeding.

3. Use Ice Packs: Swelling is normal. Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 15 minutes on, then 15 minutes off, to reduce swelling.

4. Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods. Like soups, yogurts, and smoothies for the first few days. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as you feel comfortable.

5. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid using a straw for the first few days, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot that's forming in the socket, leading to complications.

6. Oral Hygiene: Keep the extraction site clean. After 24 hours of the surgery, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.

Don'ts After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

1. Take it Easy: For the next week, don't do anything too tough or exhausting. This includes lifting heavy stuff or doing intense workouts, as these can cause more bleeding and swelling.

2: Don’t Rinse Too Vigorously: Don’t rinse your mouth too vigorously. While keeping your mouth clean is important, being too aggressive can harm the clot that's essential for healing.

3. Don't Smoke or Use Tobacco: Don’t smoke or drink alcohol. Both can interfere with the healing process. Smoking, in particular, can increase the risk of dry socket, a painful condition.

4. Avoid Hard, Chewy, or Sticky Foods: Hard, chewy, or sticky foods can disturb the extraction site or get stuck and cause infection. Stick to soft foods until you're fully healed.

5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the healing process and the effectiveness of any prescribed medication. It's best to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after your surgery, or longer if your dentist advises.

6. Watch Out for Infection: Keep an eye out for things like more swelling, ongoing pain, fever, or pus coming from where the tooth was taken out. If you see any of these, get in touch with your dentist right away.

7. Don't Skip Follow-Up Appointments: Finally, don’t skip your follow-up appointments. Your dentist needs to ensure everything is healing as it should.

Final Thoughts

Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction doesn't have to be a daunting process. By following these dos and don'ts, you can ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Remember, if you have any concerns or unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to contact our dentist in Saskatoon.

Thank you for reading! If you found this blog post helpful, share it with someone who might need this advice, and don't forget to subscribe for more health tips and advice.

See you in the next post!

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