After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Posted on 10/1/2024 by Wheaton Oral Surgery |
 Congratulations! You've just taken a big step towards a healthier smile by having your wisdom teeth removed. While you're probably feeling a bit sore and groggy right now, it's important to follow your post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.
What to Expect in the First Few Days
It's normal to experience some swelling and discomfort in the days following your surgery. This is due to the inflammation and healing process that your body is undergoing. The amount of swelling and pain will vary from person to person, but you can expect it to peak within the first 2-3 days and gradually subside over the next week or so.
Here are some helpful tips to manage your discomfort:
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Apply ice packs: Wrap a thin towel around an ice pack and apply it to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. |
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Take pain medication: Your oral surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage your discomfort. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully and don't hesitate to contact your surgeon if you have any questions. |
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Rest: Get plenty of rest in the days following your surgery. This will help your body heal and recover. |
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Elevate your head: When you're lying down, elevate your head with pillows to help reduce swelling. |
What to Eat and Drink
During the first few days after your surgery, you'll need to stick to a soft diet. This means avoiding hard, chewy, or spicy foods that could irritate your extraction sites. Some good options include:
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Applesauce |
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Mashed potatoes |
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Yogurt |
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Smoothies |
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Soup |
As you start to feel better, you can gradually add more solid foods to your diet. However, it's important to avoid anything that could get stuck in your extraction sites, such as nuts, seeds, and popcorn.
It's also important to stay hydrated after your surgery. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and sports drinks. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as these can dehydrate you and slow down the healing process.
Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is important after your surgery to prevent infection. However, you'll need to be careful not to disturb your extraction sites. For the first 24 hours, avoid brushing your teeth, rinsing with mouthwash, or using floss near the extraction sites.
After 24 hours, you can start gently brushing your teeth and rinsing with warm salt water. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid using any harsh mouthwashes.
You can also start using floss again, but be careful not to floss near the extraction sites. If you have any questions about how to clean your mouth after your surgery, be sure to ask your oral surgeon.
When to See Your Oral Surgeon
Most people recover from wisdom tooth removal without any complications. However, it's important to watch for any signs of infection, such as:
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Fever |
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Severe pain or swelling that doesn't improve after a few days |
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Redness or pus around the extraction sites |
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Bad breath |
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Difficulty opening your mouth |
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your oral surgeon right away.
Conclusion
Following your post-operative instructions carefully will help you recover quickly and comfortably from your wisdom tooth removal. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact your oral surgeon.
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