Most people will have their wisdom teeth removed at some point in their life. The ideal age for wisdom removal is typically in the late teenage years or early adulthood. Wisdom teeth are the final set of molars to develop, and they are often too large to fit properly in the jaw. The sooner they are extracted the better in most cases, in order to prevent a variety of problems.
While wisdom teeth extraction is a routine dental procedure, many patients wonder about the recovery process and what to expect. Here’s what you need to know to make your recovery as quick and comfortable as possible.
What Happens Right After Your Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Immediately following your procedure you can expect to experience some bleeding. You’ll need to bite down on gauze until the bleeding stops, changing it out periodically as needed. If you were sedated for the procedure, you may feel groggy or sleepy as the anesthesia takes time to wear off. You may have some numbness in your lips, cheek, and tongue due to local anesthesia. When you are ready you can go home to rest for the remainder of the day. You will need someone to drive you home.
Common Symptoms During the First Few Days
For the first 24 hours it is best to rest with your head elevated. Bleeding may continue for a few hours, gradually tapering off until the gauze comes out clean. Some swelling of the face may occur. Applying ice to the side of the face can help to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Over the next few days you may notice some bruising around your jaw and cheeks. You may be sore in the affected area, for which over the counter pain medication is typically sufficient. Your dentist may prescribe a stronger pain reliever to use as needed.
If you notice any abnormal symptoms such as severe pain, heavy or persistent bleeding, or you develop a fever, contact your dentist.
Eating and Drinking After Surgery
It is best to eat a soft diet and avoid drinking from a straw for at least 2 weeks following the procedure. Some suggestions for the first 24-48 hours include:
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Pudding
- Jello
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Oatmeal
- Mashed bananas
As you feel up to it you can begin to eat more solid foods, still sticking to soft options such as:
- Scrambled eggs
- Pasta
- Soft cheese
- Avocado
- Soft fruits
- Veggies cooked soft
- Beans
Stay hydrated as much as possible to aid in the healing process and to prevent infection. Rinse your mouth as directed by your dentist to keep the extraction sites clean.
Understanding the Risk of Dry Socket
One of the most common post-op complications after wisdom teeth extraction is dry socket. This condition occurs when the blood clot dislodges from the socket, leaving the bone and nerves exposed. It can be extremely uncomfortable and lead to infection.
To avoid dry socket, don’t drink from a straw for at least 2 weeks after your procedure. The sucking motion can dislodge the blood clots.
If you have severe pain in the extraction area or the bone is exposed, contact your dentist. Dry socket can be treated with a medicated dressing placed in the socket to prevent infection and accelerate healing.
When to Resume Normal Activities
Within 3-4 days after wisdom teeth extraction, you should be ready to return to school or work and resume your regular daily activities. But pay attention to how you feel. Not everyone will operate on the same timeline when it comes to recovery. Different rates of healing and the complexity of the procedure are factors that may affect when you feel ready to go back to your regular routine.
The Importance of Follow Up Care
A few weeks after your wisdom teeth are extracted you will need to return to our office for a follow-up appointment. This allows us to monitor your healing and ensure that your recovery is going smoothly. If any problems arise before the follow-up, please call R. Renan Williams, DDS at 817-281-4801 or contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does swelling typically last after wisdom tooth removal?
Swelling typically reaches its peak about 2-3 days after the procedure and begins to subside around day 5. If swelling lasts more than 2 weeks, contact your dentist.
When can I go back to eating my normal diet?
It is important to be cautious when eating during the first few days, sticking to soft foods that won’t irritate or reopen wounds. About a week or so following the procedure you may be ready to eat normally again.
R. Renan Williams, DDS provides comprehensive family dental care including wisdom teeth extraction in North Richland Hills, TX. Through open communication and transparency we ensure our patients feel comfortable and know what to expect during and after treatment. To learn more or schedule an appointment, contact us today.