Tips for Fast Recovery after Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth removal is a dental treatment that most people will need at some point in their life. If you are planning to have your wisdom teeth removed, then it is important that you plan a few days for recovery after the treatment. During this time, there are a few things that you can do to speed up the recovery time.

The time for recovery varies depending on each person. Some people experience minor discomfort and pain, while other people have quite a bit of swelling and even bruising. These symptoms vary depending on how difficult the extraction was.

Here are a few things that you can do to have a fast recovery:

Pain Management

Pain is unavoidable, but there are a few options to manage the pain. Your dentist will make recommendations about medications that can be used. You can choose between over-the-counter solutions, such as Tylenol or ibuprofen. If something stronger is needed, then you might have a prescription medication that can be used.

Keep in mind that it is best to avoid aspirin after wisdom tooth removal. Aspirin can make the wound bleed and it can also slow down the clotting process. You can also use ice packs on your cheeks to reduce swelling and manage pain.

Caring for the Wound

It is normal for the socket to ooze for about a day after the teeth have been removed. During this time, you should use precautions to keep the wounds clean to avoid infection. If the sockets are still bleeding, then you can bite down on gauze for 20 minutes at a time. Sometimes, patients think that the bleeding is more severe than it is since the blood mixes with saliva.

Don’t rinse your mouth during the first few days because the rinsing motion can dislodge the clots in the sockets. If the clots come out, then you could experience quite a bit of pain and discomfort, commonly referred to as a dry socket.

Food and Drink during Recovery

After your wisdom teeth are removed, you need to be cautious about your diet for a few days. Avoid hot drinks and don’t use a straw to drink fluids. It is best to take small sips of fluid.

Food choices should be focused on soft things that don’t need a lot of chewing. Eat with small bites to minimize chewing. Examples of good menu options include soup, applesauce, Jello, pudding, smoothies, and other similar types of food.

When you have your wisdom teeth removed, you will receive other detailed instructions from the dental staff about how to care for your wounds. For more information about wisdom teeth removal, we invite you to contact our office to schedule an appointment.