5 Do’s & Don’ts After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Extracting one or more wisdom teeth is a common procedure that is often necessary for maintaining optimal oral health. Wisdom teeth can lead to complications like infections, crowding, and jaw pain if left untreated. In fact, most people don’t have enough room in their mouths to accommodate these extra molars.

If you’ve been advised by your dentist or oral surgeon to undergo a wisdom tooth extraction, here are some key tips to help guide you through the recovery process.

If you’re considering wisdom teeth extraction, Access Dental is here to provide expert care and guidance. Contact us to learn more about our services.

5 Do’s – Wisdom Teeth Recovery Tips

Now that you’ve had your wisdom teeth removed, your primary focus should be on proper healing. Following your dentist’s recommendations can help prevent complications like infections or dry socket. Here are five essential recovery tips to keep in mind:

1. Keep Your Head Elevated

For the first few days after your procedure, rest with your head slightly elevated. This reduces swelling around the extraction site and helps manage discomfort by decreasing blood flow to the area. Using an extra pillow while resting or sleeping can make a big difference in your comfort and speed up your recovery.

2. Apply a Cold Compress

Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the side of your face where the extraction was performed can help reduce inflammation and bruising. Use the compress for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off. Always wrap the ice in a clean cloth to avoid skin damage.

3. Stick to a Soft Food Diet

After your extraction, it’s crucial to eat soft foods and liquids like:

• Warm soup or broth
• Blended smoothies
• Applesauce
• Yogurt
• Soft fruits
• Ice cream

Chewing hard or solid foods too soon can lead to increased pain, bleeding, or infection. Follow your dentist’s guidance on when it’s safe to transition back to your regular diet.

4. Perform Gentle Jaw Exercises

Your jaw may feel stiff and sore following the procedure. Gentle jaw exercises can help ease tension and stiffness. Slowly open and close your mouth a few times throughout the day, and consider massaging your jaw muscles with your fingers to improve mobility.

5. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions Carefully

It’s essential to follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions, including medication schedules, to manage pain and prevent infection. Sticking to the guidelines provided by your oral health team is the best way to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.

5 Don’ts – What to Avoid During Recovery

There are some important actions you should avoid after your wisdom teeth extraction. Here are the top five things not to do during your recovery:

1. Avoid Brushing Immediately

You should refrain from brushing your teeth or using mouthwash for the first 24 hours after your surgery. Afterward, you can resume brushing but be careful around the extraction site until it fully heals. Ask your dentist about the best ways to keep your mouth clean without disturbing the healing area.

2. Don’t Use a Straw

Using a straw after a wisdom tooth extraction creates suction, which can dislodge the blood clot formed at the extraction site. This could lead to dry socket, a painful condition that can delay healing. It’s best to drink directly from a glass and avoid any sucking motions.

3. Don’t Eat Hard or Crunchy Foods

Avoid hard or sharp foods like:

• Chips
• Pretzels
• Nuts
• Popcorn

These foods can irritate or harm the extraction site, causing pain and delaying healing. Stick to soft foods until your dentist gives you the green light to resume normal eating habits.

4. Pause Smoking and Tobacco Use

If you smoke, it’s important to stop for at least 72 hours after your extraction. Smoking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of developing dry socket. Your dentist may recommend waiting longer to allow your mouth to fully heal.

5. Don’t Hesitate to Contact Your Dentist

If you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, or other unusual symptoms during recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a smooth recovery.

At Access Dental, we offer high-quality dental services, including wisdom teeth extractions, to help you maintain excellent oral health. Our team is ready to assist you through every step of your recovery.