Wisdom tooth extraction is a common surgical procedure that requires proper post-surgical care. If you’ve recently undergone this procedure, it’s crucial to follow the instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon for a smooth recovery. In this article, we will discuss important guidelines for post-wisdom tooth removal care to help you heal properly and minimize discomfort.
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Managing Discomfort and Pain
Feeling discomfort after the extraction is normal. Unless you are allergic or intolerant to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), your doctor may recommend taking ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) after the surgery. However, if you have asthma, it’s vital to avoid ibuprofen unless you’ve previously tolerated it. If the pain persists despite taking ibuprofen, your doctor may prescribe a narcotic pain medication. It’s important to note that narcotic pain medicine can affect your judgment and reflexes, so be cautious when taking it.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
To ensure proper healing, it’s essential to follow a strict oral hygiene routine. Gauze pads should be placed over the extraction site(s) and held firmly in place with biting pressure. This will help prevent you from swallowing blood, which can cause nausea. Remember to replace the gauze pads every 20-40 minutes and continue doing so until there is little to no blood on them. While some bleeding is common for up to 24 hours, it should gradually subside.
On the day of surgery, avoid rinsing. This can prolong bleeding. Instead, start saltwater rinses the day after surgery and continue for one week. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water 6-8 times a day. To make the saltwater solution, dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in a small glass of warm tap water. If your dentist prescribed Peridex™ rinse, follow the instructions and use it twice a day.
Managing Swelling
Swelling is a normal part of the healing process after oral surgery and can contribute to discomfort. To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the side of your face for 10 minutes at a time, alternating sides. Do this for the first 24 hours. It’s important not to directly freeze the skin. Additionally, keeping your head elevated on two pillows for 3-4 days can help minimize swelling’s severity.
Modified Diet for Healing
When it comes to diet, it’s necessary to make some adjustments to promote healing. Before taking your prescribed medications, remove the gauze and consume something soft but substantial, such as mashed potatoes, refried beans, pasta, or oatmeal. After eating, replace the gauze, wait approximately 30 minutes, and then take your medications. Avoid consuming hot foods or liquids during the first 24 hours. If you were sedated during surgery, steer clear of fatty, creamy, or oily foods as they may cause nausea. Stick to soft foods for the first week, such as soups, eggs, mashed potatoes, and meatloaf. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods like European breads, pizza crust, steak or jerky, nuts, or popcorn for the next 2 weeks (8 weeks if lower wisdom teeth were extracted). Lastly, to prevent dry socket, refrain from using a straw for the initial 3 days after surgery.
Other Important Considerations
It’s essential to resume brushing your teeth the day after surgery. Even if your teeth and gums are sensitive, proper oral hygiene is crucial for healing and preventing complications. Remember to brush all of your teeth thoroughly and remove bacterial plaque and food accumulation near the extraction site.
If you are a smoker, try to refrain from smoking for at least a week. Smoking can increase bleeding, impair healing, and potentially lead to a dry socket.
Avoid engaging in vigorous physical activities for the first 3 days following your surgery. Activities such as jogging or tennis should be postponed for 5-7 days after your surgery to prevent increased swelling, pain, and bleeding. Gradually introduce physical activity back into your routine.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smoother recovery process after wisdom tooth removal. If you have any concerns or experience severe pain, swelling, or complications, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist or oral surgeon for further guidance. Remember, proper care during the recovery period is crucial for optimal healing and a speedy return to normalcy.
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