Wisdom teeth, also called third molars, usually emerge between the ages of 17 to 21. Wisdom tooth extraction is performed if the tooth is misaligned, trapped, emerges at a wrong angle, or causes infection and pain.

The recovery process from wisdom teeth removal can sometimes be uncomfortable. However, you can expedite your recovery and minimize discomfort with the right care and precautions. In this blog, we will provide valuable tips for a quick and smooth recovery after extracting a wisdom tooth.

The Wisdom Tooth Extraction Procedure

Wisdom tooth removal is a dental procedure that most people go through in their lives. If you’re also one of those who are planning to get their wisdom teeth removed because of some complications, take a brief look at what the entire procedure will look like at the best dental hospital.

• Dental Evaluation

Before the extraction, your dentist will assess the condition of your wisdom teeth, how it has emerged, and the problems it has been causing and develop a tailored treatment plan accordingly.

• The Extraction Process

The extraction is performed under local or general anesthesia. The oral surgeon will make an incision at the region of the impacted tooth. This is done to reach the roots of the tooth and ensure it is properly extracted.

The best part is you will not be able to feel any pain till the effect of the anesthesia is present. After the procedure, you may feel a numbness in your mouth. Normal sensations will be restored in a few hours.

• Impact of Wisdom Teeth Extraction

After the anesthesia fades away, you can feel your cheeks swollen or pain in the gums. Pain, swelling, and inflammation are all a part of wisdom teeth extraction, which will subside quickly when you follow the right recovery tips.

Tips for Fast Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Take a look at some of the top recovery tips from oral surgeons at the dental clinic in Hyderabad to ensure speedy recovery:

• Rest and Keep Your Head Elevated

When you lay flat on your bed, there is an increase in the blood supply near the extraction site, resulting in a throbbing sensation. Thus, it is advised to keep your head properly elevated when sleeping. It helps reduce swelling, prevent bleeding, and speed up recovery.

Additionally, avoid doing any strenuous activities; healing is automatically expedited when you take plenty of rest. Listen to music, read books, watch movies, or do other stress-relieving activities you love.

• Keep Applying Ice Packs

After the surgery, you must apply an ice pack to your cheeks for the first three days. You can apply the ice pack for 20 minutes at a time. This will help eliminate inflammation, pain, and swelling.

• Rinse Your Mouth

Dentists often recommend rinsing your mouth gently with lukewarm salt water at least five times a day, especially after having food. It should be done for four days after the surgery to prevent infection.

• Avoid Dry Mouth

It is normal to feel your mouth sore and dry after the extraction. A dry environment inside your mouth can disturb the pH balance, increasing the harmful bacteria count. Hence, keep sipping on cold fluids. For example, drinking coconut water is good for the mouth and your body as it replenishes electrolytes and stabilizes your glucose level, promoting quicker recovery.

• Follow a Soft Food Diet

After extraction, you may not be able to consume solid food for a few days till you have healed. On the contrary, having a nutritious meal is crucial as it contributes to faster recovery. You can consider having soups, mashed vegetables, smoothies, juice, and yogurt, as these are soft and easy to chew. However, you must be having these frequently as they get digested quickly.

What You Should NOT Be Doing After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Here are some things you should avoid after wisdom teeth removal to prevent complications and improve healing:

• Don’t Smoke

Smoking is a major no-no after wisdom tooth extraction. It can impede the healing process, increase the risk of infection, and lead to complications.

• Avoid Vigorous Rinsing

While keeping your mouth clean is vital, aggressive rinsing can dislodge blood clots that form at the extraction site, leading to complications.

• Refrain from Using Straws

Sipping through a straw generates suction, which can also dislodge crucial blood clots and hinder healing.

• No Hard or Crunchy Foods

Hard or crunchy foods can be abrasive to the surgical site. Stick to soft, gentle foods during your recovery period.

• Avoid Strenuous Activities

Give your body the time it needs to heal. Avoid vigorous exercises and activities that could put stress on your mouth.

• Don’t Touch the Surgical Area

Keep your fingers away from the surgical area to prevent infection and complications.

• Don’t Skip Medications

Take prescribed medications as instructed by your dentist to manage pain and prevent infection.

• No Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can hamper with the healing process and may negatively interact with medications.

When Can I Resume Normal Activities After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Recovery from wisdom tooth extraction takes approximately 1 to 2 weeks. The pain usually starts subsiding from day 2 onwards and is completely gone by day 4 or 7 after the surgery. Most people can return to their usual routine in 3 to 5 days. 

Conclusion

Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction can be a manageable and relatively painless experience if you follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions. By avoiding strenuous activities and following the above-mentioned tips, you can reduce the risk of complications, ensure a smooth healing process, and get back to your usual activities as soon as possible.

Gnathos Dental, a dental hospital in Hyderabad, has been offering reliable and expert dental care solutions for 15+ years. Our team of certified and experienced dental surgeons offers world-class dental treatments tailored to your oral health needs. Book an appointment today!