Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure. People are afraid of procedures, but with proper care, recovery following treatment is easy. To help you, here are the top 10 tips recommended by our professional dentist near you for a smooth recovery after wisdom tooth extraction.
1. Rest is Essential
Most importantly, after extracting your wisdom tooth, you should rest. Your body requires some time to recover from the surgery. A few days after surgery, avoid running, lifting heavy things, or bending. Use pillows to support your head to prevent swelling when sleeping. Rest awhile and allow yourself to heal properly.
2. Use Ice to Limit Swelling
Swelling is part of the healing process after a wisdom tooth removal. This swelling can be minimized by periodically applying an ice pack to the cheek for 15-20 minutes during the first 24 to 48 hours. Ensure that you wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel and avoid direct contact with your skin. The ice will reduce the swelling, and you will feel less discomfort.
3. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions
The dentist will recommend some specific instructions to follow after the surgery. This instruction are essential, as it may include how to clean the area, which medications you need to take, activities you should avoid, and more. Follow these instructions promptly to prevent complications such as infection and dry sockets.
4. Consume Soft Food
Since your mouth is sensitive after wisdom tooth extractions Courtenay, professionals will recommend you consume soft foods. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that may further irritate the surgical site. Some good options after the surgery are mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and more. You can gradually add more solid foods as you heal. Additionally, chew away from the extraction site to avoid pressure on the healing area.
5. Drink Plenty of Water to Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids to recover from lost blood and fluids after surgery. However, avoid using straws as much as possible within the first few days after the extraction. Doing so does not permit the blood clot to form over the socket. Drink water and other cold liquids slowly, and ensure you are well hydrated so that your body easily recovers from wisdom tooth extraction.
6. Keep Your Mouth Clean
Keeping your mouth clean is necessary; follow oral habits like brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash. Moreover, for the first 24 hours, do not brush around the tooth extraction site. After one day, you can start gently rinsing with a saltwater solution. To make the solution, mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Swish the water in your mouth thoroughly and then spit it out.
7. Take Pain Medication as Directed
Your dentist may prescribe you pain medication to take after surgery. Use it as directed by a dentist while taking the dosage of medication. Your comfort is greatly impacted by painkillers, particularly in the early post-procedural days. If your pain doesn’t get better or gets worse after a few days, contact your dentist for solutions.
8. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and drinking liquor might affect the healing process after wisdom tooth extraction. Smoking may lead to dry sockets and infections, while alcohol contributes to high bleeding and poor healing. It’s essential to avoid smoking and consumption of liquor for at least a week.
9. Watch for Signs of Infection
It is important to watch for signs of infection at the surgical site. As some swelling and discomfort are normal, watch out for the following symptoms, such as increased pain, persistent swelling, pus from the wound, and fever. These are all signs of an infection, and if you notice any sign, then contact your dentist immediately to prevent further complications.
10. Be Patient with the Healing Process
Generally, wisdom tooth extraction recovery will take time, and everyone heals differently. Most people will begin to feel better within a week, but sometimes it may take a little more time. Follow the advice given by your dentist for effective and convenient healing from the procedure. In case you are experiencing complications like bleeding, acute pain at the extraction site, or difficulty opening the mouth, contact your dentist to solve it.
You can ensure a comfortable recovery from wisdom teeth extraction by following these tips after the procedure.
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Acreview Dental & Comox Valley Implants has an experienced dentist near Comox Valley offering comprehensive dental services. We utilize modern equipment and technology to offer precise treatment and efficient dental care, from simple checkups to advanced dental treatment. Our clinic offers everything from simple checkups to advanced dental treatment to meet your dental needs. For optimal oral health and care, visit our dental clinic today!
