Having wisdom teeth removed is so commonplace that it’s almost become a rite of passage for many late teens and young adults. Why? Because wisdom teeth are generally unnecessary and, in many but not all cases, there is not enough room in the mouth to accommodate them without complications arising. If your dentist has advised you recently to have yours removed, you likely have questions about what the recovery from extraction will be like. Continue reading to learn the answers along with tips to effectively manage the healing period!
How Long Does Recovery Take?
The initial recovery period after wisdom tooth extraction typically lasts about 1 to 2 weeks. Swelling and discomfort are often most noticeable during the first few days and gradually improve. Many people can return to school, work, or other routine activities within a few days, depending on the complexity of the extraction and how they feel.
The extraction sites themselves take longer to heal completely. The gum tissue may continue healing for several weeks, while the underlying bone can take considerably longer to fully remodel.
Your dentist can give you a more personalized timeline based on how many teeth were removed, whether they were impacted, and your overall healing.
Protect the Blood Clot
One of the most important parts of recovery is protecting the blood clot that forms in each extraction site. This clot helps protect the underlying tissue and supports healing.
For the first 24 hours, avoid vigorous rinsing, forceful spitting, and using straws. These activities can potentially dislodge the clot and contribute to a very painful condition called dry socket that may land you right back in the dentist’s chair.
Choose Soft Foods
Your mouth may be tender after surgery, so start with soft, easy-to-eat foods such as yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, smoothies eaten with a spoon, or lukewarm soup. Gradually introduce more solid foods as your comfort improves.
Avoid very hot foods and beverages immediately after surgery. Hard, crunchy, sticky, or spicy foods can irritate the extraction sites, especially during the early stages of healing.
Manage Discomfort and Swelling
Follow your dentist’s instructions for managing pain. Depending on your situation, they may recommend over-the-counter pain medication or prescribe medication.
Swelling can often be reduced with ibuprofen or by applying a cold pack to the outside of your cheek during the first day. Use it in short intervals rather than keeping it against your skin continuously.
Also, if you do take an anti-inflammatory pain reliever such as ibuprofen, be aware that it’s not recommended if you have kidney disease, heart problems, stomach ulcers, or if you’re pregnant. Always check with your doctor first if you’re unsure about your safety and follow the recommended dosage.
Lastly, rest! Rest is very important so your body can focus its energy on healing. Avoid strenuous exercise for the period recommended by your dentist, particularly during the first few days.
Know When Something is Wrong
Some discomfort, swelling, and mild bleeding are perfectly normal after wisdom tooth removal. That being said, you should contact your dentist if pain becomes significantly worse after initially improving, bleeding doesn’t stop, swelling continues to increase, or you develop signs of infection such as fever, worsening redness, or drainage.
Most wisdom tooth extraction patients see substantial improvement within several days, with continued healing over the following weeks. Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to the letter and keep these tips in mind for a smooth road to full recovery!
About the Author
Dr. Jasmine King has 20 years of experience as a practicing dentist. She’s a Jackson, MS native with a dental degree from the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry. In 2006, she relocated to the Dallas-Fort Worth area and practiced for about 10 years before founding Summer Creek Dentistry in southwest Fort Worth. Dr. King and her team offer a comprehensive menu of dental services, including wisdom tooth extraction complemented by sedation dentistry for total patient comfort. Contact them online or by phone at (817) 292-7488.