Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars, are always the last adult teeth to erupt.
For many, there is not enough room in their mouths for these teeth, which is why they need to be removed. If left to grow, wisdom teeth can become impacted, meaning they develop underneath the gums, or erupt at odd angles.
No matter the case, wisdom teeth can cause a variety of oral health complications, including decay, cavities, or crowding of nearby teeth. After the extraction, it’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to support quick healing.
Recovering from a wisdom teeth removal procedure can take time, but by following these simple tips, you’ll be in tip-top shape in no time.
What to Eat After an Extraction
After your procedure, your tooth sockets will need time to heal.
A nutritious and vitamin-filled diet is even more important after an extraction, as you’ll need all the nutrients to bring down the swelling and reduce the risk of complications.
During the first 24 hours, completely avoid hot foods and beverages.
For the next couple of days, stick to eating soft foods such as soups, mashed potatoes, and applesauce. Hard and crunchy foods will disrupt the wounds and can break the stitches.
Rinse With Salt Water
During the first 24 hours after your wisdom teeth removal, it’s best not to do any water rinses.
If allowed by your dental professional, then you may brush your teeth very gently, making sure to steer clear of the extraction site, though this is not usually recommended. Once the 24 hours have passed, you may begin gently rinsing your mouth with saltwater.
Be careful not to spit the water out too hard, as you can break the stitches or cause a dry socket.
Rest as Much as Possible
Experiencing pain, swelling, and bleeding are all part of the recovery process.
Your dentist will likely prescribe antibiotics and painkillers, but you’ll need to take it easy for the first couple of days to speed up the recovery process and relieve any discomfort. The more you rest, the better your chances of a quick and painless recovery.
Ice Your Cheeks and Keep Your Head Elevated
One of the most effective pain relief strategies after a wisdom tooth extraction includes icing the jaw and cheek.
For the initial 24 hours, apply an ice pack to the extraction site, making sure to alternate sides every twenty minutes. This will help reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain.
When going to sleep, try placing your head in an elevated position using pillows. When laying flat, the blood volume and vessel tone will increase near the wound, causing it to throb.
However, when in an elevated position, the blood volume will decrease and reduce swelling.
Massage Your Jaw
During surgery, your mouth is kept wide open for a long time, potentially causing temporary trismus, also known as lockjaw.
This condition affects the muscles in your jaw that help you chew, which can become sore after a wisdom tooth removal. Massaging this area after surgery will help release some tension your jaw may be holding onto.
Wisdom Tooth Removal at Yazdani Family Dentistry
Sometime during the ages of 17-21, most teens and young adults develop their third set of molars.
If grown correctly, wisdom teeth can be a valuable asset. However, most of the time these teeth erupt at odd angles that cause a handful of dental problems.
Our professional dentists at Yazdani Family Dentistry are experts at what they do. From regular tooth extractions to wisdom teeth removal, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands. We make it our priority to make your experience as comfortable and pain-free as possible.
Get in touch with us to learn more about wisdom tooth surgery and book your appointment today.
