What to expect after wisdom tooth extraction
Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgeries. While it does require recovery time, wisdom tooth extraction is a straightforward procedure. If you are having your wisdom teeth removed, here is what you can expect after surgery.
Recovery time will vary
Recovery time from wisdom tooth extraction varies. Some patients feel fine the next day and are ready to resume normal activities in just three to four days. Other patients may take up to two weeks before they feel fully recovered. It’s generally a good idea to take one or two days off work and then ease back into your regular routine.
How to apply gauze
Before leaving the oral surgery office, your doctor will place gauze at the surgical site and ask you to gently bite down to maintain pressure and control the bleeding. Once home, change the gauze every half hour until the bleeding stops. Do expect light bleeding for 24 hours. Call your oral surgeon if you experience any excessive bleeding.
Be ready to rest
Getting rest is important to speeding up your recovery. Prepare your house in advance, so you can park yourself on the sofa to relax. Avoid all physical activity for at least one full day and heavy physical exertion for a few days.
Apply ice
Place an ice pack covered in a cloth on your jaw at the surgical site. Hold the ice pack in place for 20 minutes and then take a 20-minute break. Repeat this process for at least a day. Icing your face will help reduce swelling and lessen discomfort.
Take your medication
Take all medication prescribed by your doctor, even if you don’t feel like you need it. Along with medicine for discomfort, you will likely be given an antibiotic to protect against infection.
Eating and drinking
Staying hydrated is important following surgery. Do not drink with a straw, as the suction can remove your blood clot. You can begin eating a few hours after you get home but stick to soft foods that do not require any chewing.
Use a saltwater rinse
Begin rinsing with saltwater starting from the next evening after your surgery. Gently swish the saltwater around your mouth after every time you eat. Do not rinse vigorously or spit as this can remove the blood clot.
Contact your doctor if you have questions
Every patient’s postop experience is different, so if something doesn’t feel right, contact your oral surgeon right away.
