What To Expect During Recovery Time for Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, are the last set of molars that usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Unfortunately, these teeth don’t always grow properly, causing problems such as pain, infection, and other issues that require extraction. If your dentist recommends wisdom teeth removal, it’s natural to be apprehensive about the recovery process. In this article, we will explore what you can expect during the recovery time for wisdom teeth removal.
The Day of the Procedure
The day you have your wisdom teeth pulled, you’ll need someone to drive you home, as you will be sedated or given a local anaesthetic that may impair your ability to drive. Immediately after the procedure, you may experience some bleeding, swelling, and pain in the area where your teeth were removed. Your dentist will provide you with post-operative instructions, which may include the following:
– Bite down on a piece of gauze over the extraction site for 30-45 minutes to help control bleeding
– Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 10 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
– Take pain relievers as needed to manage discomfort
– Avoid spitting, smoking, and using straws for the next 24 hours to avoid dislodging the blood clot from the extraction site
The First Week after Surgery
During the first week after surgery, you may need to take some time off from work or school to rest and recover. It’s essential to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully to avoid any complications during the healing process. Here’s what you can expect during the first week:
– Swelling: Swelling may peak around the third day after surgery before subsiding gradually over the next week.
– Pain: You may experience some pain and discomfort, but this should improve each day.
– Diet: Your diet will likely be limited to soft foods and liquids during the first few days after surgery. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as your mouth heals.
– Oral hygiene: Brush your teeth gently to keep the surgical area clean, but avoid rinsing or spitting vigorously, which can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
– Follow-up appointment: Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and remove any sutures if necessary.
The Second Week after Surgery
By the second week after surgery, you should be starting to feel like yourself again. You’ll likely still be healing, but you should be able to return to your regular routine slowly. Here are a few things you can expect during the second week:
– Pain: Your pain levels should be much lower than the first week, and you may be able to stop taking prescription pain medication.
– Oral hygiene: Continue to brush your teeth gently and rinse with a saltwater solution to promote healing.
– Physical activity: You may resume light exercise, but avoid strenuous activity that can increase blood pressure and prolong healing.
– Diet: You can begin eating a regular diet but avoid any hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that can irritate the extraction site.
Conclusion
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal can take several weeks, but by following your dentist’s instructions carefully, you can prevent complications and promote healing. Remember to rest, eat soft foods, and take care of your oral hygiene. If you experience any severe pain, swelling or fever, contact your dentist immediately, as these can be signs of complications. By taking care of your mouth after wisdom teeth removal, you’ll be on your way to a healthy recovery and a beautiful smile!
