Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Postoperative Instructions
Once your wisdom tooth procedure is complete, it is important to follow proper postoperative instructions from your oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. The following are some general recommendations you can follow to promote healing.
Take it Easy
Rest is important in the first few days after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, exercises and sports that can interfere with the healing process.
Treat Pain and Swelling
Pain and swelling after wisdom tooth extraction is normal. Your OMS may prescribe pain relievers or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to make you more comfortable. Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the outside of the cheek also can help reduce swelling.
Control Bleeding
Some bleeding is expected after surgery. Gently bite on a clean gauze pad or moistened tea bag placed over the extraction site to reduce bleeding. Follow the instructions of your OMS. If bleeding persists or becomes excessive, contact your OMS.
Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is essential for a smooth recovery. However, be careful around the surgical site so that the blood clot does not dislodge which could impede healing. When brushing your teeth during the first 24 to 48 hours, use extra care to avoid traumatizing the extraction site. Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (a half teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water) several times a day to keep the area clean and promote healing. Alternatively, your OMS may prescribe you a mouthwash.
Diet
For the first few days after surgery, it is best to consume a soft diet and choose foods that are easy to swallow and do not require a lot of chewing such as soups, yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes and eggs. Avoid hot, spicy, hard, chewy or crunchy foods that can irritate the healing site. When you feel comfortable, slowly introduce solid foods back into your diet.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water. Aggressive sucking through a straw can loosen blood clots and cause complications such as dry sockets. Instead, drink liquid from a cup or a squeeze bottle.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Smoking and drinking can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Smokeless tobacco also can increase the risk of complications. It is best to stop smoking completely for at least a few days after surgery. Additionally, avoid alcohol during the recovery period, as it can make pain medications less effective and impede healing.
Follow the Instructions for Your Medicine
If your surgeon has prescribed medications or a mouthwash, make sure to take them as directed.
Attend Follow-up Appointments
Follow-up appointments allow your OMS to monitor healing progress and ensure there are no complications. Be sure to attend these appointments as scheduled and bring up any concerns or questions.
The recovery process may vary from person to person. If you experience severe or persistent pain, excessive bleeding, swelling or other symptoms of concern, contact your OMS immediately.
