Wisdom Teeth Extractions: Do’s and Don’ts

Wisdom tooth extraction is a routine dental procedure that many people undergo. Whether your wisdom teeth are causing discomfort, are impacted, or need to be removed for other reasons, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. Understanding the dos and don’ts following the extraction can significantly impact your healing process and prevent complications. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you should and shouldn’t do after having your wisdom teeth removed.

After Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction, Do’s

• Elevate your head: This will help reduce swelling.
• Apply ice to your face: For the first 24 to 48 hours, use ice to alleviate pain and minimize swelling.
• Bite down on gauze: This helps stop bleeding. Once the bleeding has ceased, you can remove the gauze.
• Stick to soft food and liquid diet: Start with liquids and soft foods, gradually introducing firmer foods as you heal.
• Perform gentle jaw exercises: Open and close your mouth slowly to maintain jaw flexibility.
• Drink plenty of fluids: Avoid using a straw, as suction can disturb the healing process.
• Take prescribed pain medication: Follow the prescription carefully, as skipping doses may make it harder to manage pain later.
• Begin brushing your teeth: Start brushing from the second day after surgery, but avoid brushing the extraction sites.
• Contact Dr. Robert Walker, your trusted Spokane dentist, immediately if you experience a fever (which could indicate an infection) or if pain and swelling persist despite following these instructions.

After Your Wisdom Teeth Extraction, Don’ts

• Using straws, sucking, spitting, or smoking: Refrain from these actions to help keep the blood clot intact over the extraction site. Dislodging the clot can lead to increased bleeding, pain, and a condition known as dry socket.
• Eating hard or sharp foods: Steer clear of pretzels, popcorn, potato chips, and similar foods for at least one week to prevent irritation at the extraction sites.
• Continuing ice packs beyond 48 hours: After the first two days, switch from ice to heat for relief. Apply heat to the outside of your face or use warm water to soothe and promote healing in the mouth.
• Rinsing your mouth too vigorously: While saltwater rinses might be suggested, avoid doing so too forcefully to prevent disrupting the healing process.

What Else Should I Know About Wisdom Teeth Extraction?

Many patients in Spokane Valley opt for sedation dentistry to enhance their comfort during wisdom teeth extraction. It’s important to note that reactions to sedation medications can vary from person to person. If you choose a sedation option other than nitrous oxide (laughing gas), you won’t be able to drive yourself home after the procedure. You’ll need to arrange for a friend or family member to take you home. Additionally, it’s wise not to be alone during the first few hours following your procedure to ensure you have support if any issues arise from the sedation.

Proper aftercare following wisdom tooth extraction is crucial for a successful recovery. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you can help minimize discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and support your body’s natural healing process. If you have any questions or experience unexpected symptoms during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist for guidance and support.