Tips for quick recovery post wisdom tooth extraction

Wisdom teeth are a group of four molars that appear in our mouths once we reach the age of seventeen. Wisdom teeth problems are widespread because there isn’t enough room for them. They can exert pressure on your existing teeth if they occur, causing pain and shifting.  

If this happens to you, your dentist will most likely advise you to have them removed surgically. Wisdom tooth extraction pain is common, and recovery can take up to a week, depending on severity. If your wisdom teeth are infected, the recovery process may be lengthy.   

After the wisdom teeth removal, the most crucial aspect of recovery is ensuring you don’t dislodge the blood clots that form at the site of the wounds. It would be best to be extra careful as you might damage the stitches used to close the holes after the surgery. The blood clots act like a scab to protect the spot and allow it to heal. If it dislodges the blot clot, dry sockets can develop, exposing your nerves, increasing pain and risk for infection. Alpha Dental has stated some tips for quick wisdom teeth removal recovery.  

Wisdom tooth extraction Procedure  

Depending on your wisdom teeth issue severity, your dentist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs the wisdom teeth extraction process.  

Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the extraction area. They may perform multiple wisdom tooth extractions under general anesthesia.  

The dentist or surgeon will open the gum tissue over and around your tooth or teeth as part of the removal process. Then a gauze pad will be placed on the extraction site to stop the bleeding after your wisdom teeth extraction.  

What can a person do immediately after their wisdom teeth removal surgery?  

• To aid speed recovery, people should seek the advice of their dentist or surgeon. They will provide clear information on any medication to take and caution to encourage healing.   
• To avoid blood clots, dislodge biting on a gauze pad in the extraction area for up to 60 minutes.  
• A dentist or surgeon may also recommend an ice pack during the first few hours post- surgery.  
• Placing an ice pack outside the extraction site for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off over the extraction site area will help minimise discomfort and swelling.  
• People who have been in the hospital for surgery and undergone general anesthesia will be unable to drive for 48 hours. It is advisable to take two days off post-surgery.  
• People who have had wisdom teeth surgery are recommended to use pain medications to help with pain and discomfort.  

Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction  

Wisdom teeth removal usually requires a significant amount of recovery time. You must know how to care for your teeth and gums and help speed up the wisdom teeth recovery time after surgery.   

Keep A Check on Bleeding: Slight bleeding for a day or two after your tooth extraction is normal. Try to sit upright and avoid vigorous activity for a few days after the extraction. Post-surgery, rinse your mouth first and bite down on a gauze to control bleeding and maintain the clot formed on the top.  

Take Medicines: Your medication helps with the wisdom tooth extraction pain and swelling you may experience after wisdom tooth extraction. Make sure to take medicines on time for quick recovery.   

Rest: Rest is the most effective technique to cure any problem your body is experiencing. Instead of rushing back to your daily routine take some time to recover first. Heavy exercise is not advised when recovering following tooth extraction; it may cause the blood clot to dislodge. Also, while sleeping, make sure to keep your head elevated using pillows.  

Avoid Tobacco: Consuming tobacco in any form is harmful to your health, especially after extraction. They hinder healing and may even result in a dry socket at the extraction site.  

Stay Hydrated: Hydration is the key to recovery from wisdom tooth extraction. Drink as much water and natural fruit juice post-surgery. Avoid drinking caffeinated or fizzy beverages for at least the first 24 hours after the extraction.  

 Oral Hygiene: It is more important to follow an oral hygiene routine. Gently brush the extraction area to clean it, then rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. However, do not brush, rinse, or spit for the first 24 hours post-surgery.  

Food to avoid after wisdom tooth extraction   

Do not drink soft drinks, coffee, alcohol or foods that can get stuck in the extraction site and can delay wisdom teeth recovery.  

For better healing, avoid the following foods:  

• Spices can irritate the wound and cause inflammation.  
• Foods that are crunchy and crumbly may crumble in your mouth, causing more harm than good.  
• Products containing grains or seeds can become stuck in the extraction site.  

Contact Us If:   

• A dry socket occurs, which is when a blood clot does not form or is dislodged after tooth extraction.  
• Difficulties in Breathing or swallowing  
• Medication is not controlling the pain.   
• Numbness that lasts a few days.  
• Even with gauze and pressure, the bleeding continues.  
• Blood or pus from the nose  

Getting a wisdom tooth extraction is a tricky procedure that requires a few weeks of recovery time. However, for the best wisdom tooth removal service, get in touch with the experts at Alpha Dental today. With the most recent and best equipment at your disposal, you’ll always leave with a magnificent smile.   

Schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist to ensure the wound is healing properly. Follow-up will allow your dentist to check for any infection or underlying condition that may hinder your recovery after wisdom tooth extraction.