What Is Recovery Like After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental surgery that is typically performed on adults between the ages of 17 and 25. The American Dental Association recommends that patients schedule a consultation to check their wisdom teeth before turning 20 years old. A dental professional can determine how many wisdom teeth a patient has and if there are possible complications with growth. Extraction may be necessary if a patient does not have room in the mouth or if wisdom teeth are impacted. All patients should know what to expect during recovery and take steps to improve healing.

Recovery

The typical length of time for healing after surgery is several days to a week. Some factors that determine recovery time include how many teeth were removed and if any of them were impacted. Fortunately, a patient can follow the instructions from a dental professional to improve healing.

Pain, bleeding, and swelling

It is common to expect pain for about three to seven days after wisdom tooth extraction. Some patients can control pain with over-the-counter pain relievers, while others may need a prescription medication.

Light bleeding is common immediately following surgery. Use gauze on the extraction site and replace it as directed. It is important not to spit, rinse, floss, or drink from a straw to avoid dislodging the blood clot. Swelling is also typical for a few days following surgery and can be treated by placing an ice pack on the jaw.

Activity

Young adults are generally active, and one of the most difficult things about healing is limiting normal activities. However, one suggestion for speeding up healing time is to take it easy for several days. Avoid strenuous activities that could dislodge the blood clot from the extraction site.

Food and drink

The first 24 hours following surgery are the most restrictive when it comes to eating and drinking. Soft foods such as applesauce, scrambled eggs, pudding, and yogurt are ideal the first day. A patient can introduce semisoft foods following the first 24 hours but should continue to avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods. Proper healing of the blood clot and extraction site is extremely important.

A patient should not drink alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated, or hot drinks during the first 24 hours after surgery. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during recovery. All patients should avoid drinking beverages through a straw for one week. Again, this is to avoid dislodging the blood clot.

Cleaning

It is imperative to properly clean the mouth following surgery. In the first 24 hours post-surgery, patients should not brush their teeth, floss, rinse, or use mouthwash. After 24 hours, a patient should gently rinse the mouth with salt water several times a day and after eating for about seven days. Gentle care should be used when brushing teeth for the first week.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth extraction is an expected dental surgery for many young adults. A patient can encourage faster healing and reduce complications by following the instructions given by a dental professional.

Request an appointment here: https://www.roderickgarciadmd.com or call Roderick A. Garcia, DMD PC at (505) 634-5029 for an appointment in our Albuquerque office.

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