Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a bit scary, but it is a common procedure that most people undergo. Following surgery, the care you take for yourself is most important. Below are some helpful tips and tricks for an easy recovery from wisdom teeth removal.
Understand the Procedure
Before diving into recovery tips it is essential to know what actually happens during wisdom teeth removal. The teeth are removed most often because they are impacted, meaning they do not have enough space to grow properly. This can lead to pain, infection, or damage to the nearby teeth. It’s normal to feel nervous before the surgery. The dentist will ensure you are feeling as comfortable as possible while sedated during the time of the surgery.
1. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
Your dentist will give you some specific instructions after your surgery, and you must follow these promptly to ensure smooth recovery. Generally, these instructions will include:
- Taking the prescribed medications to minimize pain and swelling
- Utilizing ice packs for swelling
- Refraining from consuming foods that may irritate the extraction sites.
2. Rest is Key
After your surgery, give your body time to heal. You should plan to rest for a few days. It’s best to avoid any tiring activities such as sports or heavy lifting. The more you rest, the faster you will recover.
3. Eat Soft Foods
What you eat after the surgery is very important. Your mouth will be sensitive, so it’s good to consume soft foods for the first few days. Some great options are:
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Smoothies
Make sure to avoid consumption of hot, spicy, or crunchy foods, as they can hurt your mouth and delay healing.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is very important after surgery. It helps your body heal and keeps you feeling well. However, you should avoid using straws for the first few days, as sucking can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the extraction site. This clot is very important for healing.
5. Keep Your Mouth Clean
It is important to keep your mouth clean after your wisdom teeth are removed. However, be gentle when brushing your teeth. Avoid brushing at extraction sites for the first couple of days. After 24 hours, you can rinse your mouth with warm salt water to help keep the area clean. This can also reduce swelling and pain. Just be careful to follow your dentist’s advice about how soon and how much to rinse for proper tooth extraction aftercare.
6. Use Ice Packs
Swelling is normal after wisdom teeth removal. To help reduce it, apply ice packs to your cheeks for the first 24 hours. You can put the ice pack on for 15-20 minutes at a time. This will help reduce pain and keep you feeling more comfortable.
7. Watch for Signs of Complications
While most recoveries go smoothly, it’s important to watch for any signs that something might be wrong. If you experience:
- Excessive bleeding
- Intense pain not relieved by medication
- Foul taste or odour in your mouth
- Fever
You should contact your dentist immediately. These could be signs of an infection or other complications that need attention.
Recovering from wisdom teeth removal doesn’t have to be scary. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure a smooth recovery. Remember to listen to your dentist at the dental clinic near you instructions, eat soft foods, and keep your mouth clean. A little care after wisdom tooth removal ensures a smooth recovery.
Avoid Oral Complications—Extract Your Wisdom Teeth Today!
At Bear Creek Dental, we provide gentle and professional care for patients of all ages. From routine cleanings to wisdom tooth extractions, our team ensures you get the optimal dental treatment in a comfortable setting. Our dentist in Grande Prairie focuses on keeping your teeth strong and your gums healthy.
Book your appointment at Bear Creek Dental today!