The Essential Dos and Don’ts After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

The Essential Dos and Don’ts After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery By Maylands Dental Centre | October 10, 2024

The Essential Dos and Don’ts After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery

Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure that many people face at some point in their lives. While the surgery itself is often straightforward, the recovery process can feel a little daunting. This is particularly true if it’s your first time undergoing this type of procedure. Being aware of what to expect about the recovery after wisdom teeth removal or how to look after yourself afterwards is crucial. It’s an initial step to promoting healing and preventing complications.

This blog will talk about the essential dos and don’ts during the first few days after removing wisdom teeth. It offers practical tips to help you heal as comfortably as possible, so keep reading.

Summary of the Content:

  • Wisdom teeth removal is an important step for many people to maintain their oral health, but the care you take after the procedure is just as vital.
  • During the first 24 hours, focus on resting, staying hydrated, eating soft foods, and using a cold compress to manage swelling.
  • Avoid using straws, smoking, and engaging in strenuous activities, as these can lead to complications such as dry sockets.
  • Continue gentle oral hygiene and introduce soft, solid foods in the first week while avoiding hard, chewy, or spicy foods.
  • Safe and nutritious options include smoothies, soups, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, while hot beverages and acidic foods should be avoided.
  • Monitor for signs of infection, such as swelling, fever, or pus, and manage symptoms promptly to avoid complications.
  • Managing dry sockets, swelling, and discomfort is crucial for a healthy recovery.
  • Following these guidelines will help reduce the chance of complications and promote optimal healing.

What to Expect After Wisdom Teeth Removal

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The recovery after wisdom teeth extraction can vary from patient to patient based on the complexity of the procedure. The positioning of the third molars (wisdom teeth), whether partially erupted or still underneath the gums, significantly determines it.

Wisdom tooth removal refers to extracting one or more third molars, which are located at the backmost part of the mouth. Local anaesthesia or sedation is used to numb the area and maintain comfort throughout wisdom tooth extraction. During the oral surgery, your dentist will cut the gum tissue, remove the teeth, and stitch the area to cover the tooth socket. Here’s the usual recovery timeline after the removal of wisdom teeth:

  • First 24-48 hours:
    It’s common to experience post-surgery bleeding and mild facial swelling during this time. Bleeding can be controlled by biting on a gauze for 20-30 minutes, and a cold compress can be applied to minimise the swelling.
  • Days 3-5:
    Swelling and discomfort tend to peak around day three. Pain management and following the recommended diet after wisdom teeth surgery are vital during this stage.
  • Days 6-7:
    Most patients notice a significant reduction in swelling and discomfort and might be able to resume light activities.

Having a general idea of what to expect can help you feel more prepared for your wisdom tooth removal procedure. Your dentist will provide essential tips to guide you during the recovery after wisdom teeth removal. They will create a treatment plan to make aftercare specific to your needs and lifestyle. Remember that it’s crucial to follow your dentist’s instructions during this period to avoid complications, such as dry sockets and infections.

Dos and Don'ts for the First 24 Hours

The first 24 hours after wisdom teeth removal is a crucial period when symptoms tend to be most apparent. Following these guidelines can help you manage symptoms, begin the healing process, and prevent complications. Check out the following list to guide you:

Dos:

  • Take plenty of rest:
    Take it easy and allow your body to heal. Do light activities only to prevent bleeding or delay healing.
  • Keep your head elevated:
    When resting or sleeping, prop your head with pillows to minimise swelling and promote better blood circulation.
  • Apply cold packs:
    Place a cold compress on your cheeks, the side where you had your wisdom tooth removed, for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. A cold compress helps reduce swelling and numb the area. However, do this in intervals to allow proper blood flow in the area.
  • Keep yourself hydrated:
    Drink plenty of water, as staying hydrated is important during recovery after wisdom teeth removal. Dehydration might cause complications after an oral surgery, such as slowing down the healing and increasing discomfort.
  • Eat soft foods:
    Be mindful of your diet after wisdom teeth surgery and consume only soft, cold foods. Examples are applesauce, yoghurt, smoothies, and steamed soft vegetables.
  • Take pain medication:
    Use prescribed pain medications to manage discomfort and take them as recommended by your dentist.

Don’ts:

  • Do not use straws:
    When drinking, avoid using a straw because the suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket.
  • Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol:
    The nicotine present in cigarettes causes the blood vessels to narrow, which reduces the blood supply in the extraction site. This could impede the healing of tissues and increase the risk of infection.
  • Avoid spitting or rinsing forcefully:
    Spitting and vigourous rinsing can dislodge the blood clots in the extraction area. This can lead to a dry socket and increase the risk of infection.
  • Limit your physical activity:
    As we’ve mentioned earlier, you need to take a rest during the first 24 hours. Strenuous activities can make the mouth susceptible to strong impact, increase the risk of bleeding and delay healing.
  • Don’t eat chewy or hard foods:
    Chewing and biting hard, chewy, or crunchy foods requires stronger effort, which could strain the already sore muscles around the extraction site.
  • Avoid hot foods and drinks:
    Heat dilates the blood vessels, causing the area to bleed again. For the first 24-48 hours, avoid intake of hot foods and drinks.
  • Don’t touch the surgical area:
    It’s important to keep your hands and any objects away from the extraction site to avoid introducing bacteria and causing infection.

Following these simple dos and don’ts will set the foundation for a smooth recovery. Being mindful of these guidelines will help you start healing properly from day one.

Dos and Don'ts for the First Week

As you move into the first week after your wisdom tooth removal surgery, the affected area will continue to heal. During this time, continue caring for your mouth to reduce the chance of complications.

Dos:

  • Continue resting:
    While you can slowly resume normal and light activities, make sure to prioritise rest. Still, avoid any strenuous tasks that could raise your blood pressure and increase the risk of swelling or delayed healing.
  • Maintain gentle oral hygiene:
    After the first 24 hours, you can start brushing your teeth carefully, but avoid the surgical sites. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid harsh bristles from irritating the gum tissues.
  • Use saltwater rinses:
    Aside from proper dental hygiene, rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater also helps reduce bacteria in your mouth and ease discomfort. You can rinse your mouth gently several times a day, specifically after meals. This helps keep the surgical site clean and can minimise discomfort.
  • Gradually introduce more solid foods:
    Start introducing slightly more textured foods into your diet, but keep things soft to prevent irritation to the extraction sites. Scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and steamed vegetables are good choices during this phase.
  • Monitor for common side effects:
    Some swelling or mild discomfort may persist, but it should gradually subside. If you feel any unusual symptoms, such as intense pain, contact your dentist immediately. These signs could indicate a dry socket or an infection.

Don’ts:

  • Skip strenuous activities:
    Lifting heavy objects, exercising, or bending over can increase your blood pressure, which could lead to bleeding or other complications.
  • Don’t smoke:
    It is prohibited to smoke or use tobacco products during the recovery period. Not only does it increase your risk of infection, but it can also disrupt the healing process.
  • Avoid crunchy or hard foods:
    Foods like nuts, chips, or hard vegetables can irritate the surgical sites and increase the chance of complications during your recovery after wisdom teeth removal.

Following these dos and don’ts throughout the first week is an essential way to experience a smoother recovery. If you have any questions about wisdom teeth removal or notice anything unusual, including prolonged swelling or severe pain, it’s always a good idea to contact your dentist.

Foods to Include in Your Diet

Here are some safe and nutritious options to include in your diet after wisdom teeth surgery:

  • Smoothies:
    Packed with vitamins and easy to consume, smoothies made with soft fruits like bananas, berries, and yoghurt can be a good choice. Just avoid seeds or thick bits that could get lodged in the surgical site.
  • Soups:
    Broths and blended soups like pumpkin or tomato are gentle on your gums and provide warmth and comfort. Make sure the soup is not too hot, as heat can irritate the wound.
  • Mashed potatoes:
    This soft and filling food is a good choice for keeping your energy up while being easy on your mouth.
  • Scrambled eggs:
    A great source of protein, scrambled eggs are soft and simple to prepare, making them a good option for breakfast.
  • Yoghurt:
    Yoghurt offers probiotics and protein, which can aid in recovery. Stick to plain, smooth varieties to avoid irritating the extraction area.
  • Applesauce:
    This smooth, nutrient-rich option is easy to eat and provides natural sugars to help you stay energised.

Be mindful to avoid foods that may leave food debris in the surgical area, as these particles can disrupt the healing process. Sticking to soft, easy-to-chew foods will help make your diet after wisdom teeth surgery support recovery while minimising discomfort.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid

Here’s a list of foods and drinks to avoid during your recovery period after a wisdom tooth extraction:

  • Hot beverages:
    Avoid drinks like coffee, tea, and soups that are too hot. This is because the heat can dilate the blood vessels in the wisdom tooth socket and disrupt the blood clot, which is crucial for healing.
  • Acidic foods:
    Food items such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can cause irritation and discomfort to the sensitive areas in your mouth. This is particularly true in the days or weeks after wisdom teeth surgery.
  • Chewy and crunchy foods:
    Chewier foods like meat pies and steak or crunchy snacks like chips and nuts should be avoided. These foods require significant chewing, which can disturb the wisdom tooth socket or cause irritation.
  • Spicy foods:
    Spices can aggravate the surgical site and cause discomfort, so it’s recommended to stick to regular or non-spicy foods during your recovery.
  • Sugary snacks:
    Candies and sweets can leave residue and food particles in the surgical area, increasing the risk of infection.
  • Carbonated drinks:
    Soda and sparkling water can create bubbles that may disturb the clot and lead to complications, such as dry sockets.

After wisdom tooth extraction, it’s important to follow a soft diet to support your healing process. Avoiding the foods mentioned above can help prevent discomfort and complications, allowing the extraction site to heal properly.

Monitoring and Managing Symptoms

It’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely during the recovery period to check whether the extraction site is healing properly and to catch any complications early. Some common symptoms to watch for include the following:

  • Check for swelling and bruising:
    Swelling around the cheeks and jaw is normal in the first few days, but if swelling worsens or lasts beyond a week, it may be time to contact your dentist.
  • Monitor for fever or chills:
    A mild fever can be common after surgery, but anything higher than 38°C or persistent chills might indicate an infection.
  • Observe your stitches:
    If you notice oozing pus or if the surgical area looks unusually red or swollen, it could be an indication of infection.
  • Managing dry socket:
    Check if you have a dry socket. This condition occurs when the blood clot in the wisdom tooth socket dislodges, exposing the bone and nerves. This can cause severe pain. In case it occurs, take the prescribed pain medication to help with managing dry socket symptoms.
  • Manage discomfort with prescribed medications:
    Take the medications prescribed by your dentist to help relieve your pain. However, if it becomes unmanageable despite following care guidelines, inform your dentist urgently.
  • Excessive bleeding:
    Bleeding is quite normal in the initial hours after wisdom tooth surgery. However, if the bleeding continues or becomes heavy despite using gauze and applying pressure, it could signal a more serious issue.
  • Pus oozing in or around the extraction area:
    Pus is a clear indication of infection. If you notice pus around the surgical site or experience an unpleasant taste or odour, it’s crucial to seek dental care promptly. If left ignored, infections can lead to further complications and delay your recovery.

Managing dry sockets and other common discomforts properly will help promote recovery and reduce the risk of further complications. These symptoms may indicate serious problems like infection and shouldn’t be ignored. If you experience them, contact your dentist immediately. They can assess your situation and provide specific instructions for proper management.

Final Thoughts

Following the proper aftercare steps, including adjusting your diet, pain management, taking prescribed medications, and monitoring symptoms, can significantly impact your recovery. Remember that the first few days and weeks are crucial, and being mindful of your care routine and food choices is essential for optimal healing.

As you approach the end of your recovery from wisdom teeth removal, it’s important to assess how well your healing is progressing. That way, you can avoid complications and safely resume normal activities. Signs that you are healing properly include a noticeable reduction in swelling and minimal discomfort. Also, there are no signs of infection, such as excruciating pain, pus, or fever.

If you feel confident in your recovery but still have questions, our team of experienced dentists at Maylands Dental Centre is ready to assist. Call our dental clinic or visit our website to schedule a follow-up or consultation.

Maylands Dental Centre
Maylands Dental Centre
Content published on Maylandsdentalcentre.com.au is intended to be used and must be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any decision based on your own personal circumstances. You should take independent medical advice from a professional or independently research and verify any information that you find on our Website and wish to rely upon.

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