Are you planning to take out your wisdom teeth this year? If so, you may be wondering how long the recovery process takes so you can schedule the procedure in advance. Here’s everything you need to know about wisdom teeth removal!
Wisdom Teeth Removal: Recovery Stages
Initial Recovery
The first three days after wisdom teeth removal are when you may notice the most discomfort. For some, that includes light bleeding that should stop within the first 24 hours. There may also be some swelling where your teeth were removed. To help with any pain you may experience, we recommend using ice packs and taking pain medication.
During this time period, it’s important to eat soft foods that don’t require much chewing. We recommend smoothies, soup, and shakes so you don’t infect your surgical site.
Lastly, it may help to rinse your mouth with warm salt water after your procedure. This will help keep your mouth clean before you’re ready to brush your teeth.
Remember, just like after any surgical procedure, rest is key!
Symptoms Begin to Dissipate
During days 4-7 after wisdom teeth removal, you’ll begin to notice that your swelling and pain may have calmed down considerably. At this time, you can start to introduce more complex foods into your diet, but be careful not to overdo it or chew where you had your teeth extracted. At this time, dissolvable stitches will begin to disappear. If your stitches don’t dissolve, you may need to visit your dentist to have them removed.
Healing
Over the next week, you should continue feeling better each day as your gum tissue heals. Many people start to resume their normal activities during this time.
Things to Keep in Mind After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Avoid Activities That Will Dislodge Stitches
Dry sockets are when you dislodge the blood clot that is healing the space where your wisdom teeth used to be. They can happen when you use a straw, vape, or smoke after wisdom teeth removal and can be incredibly uncomfortable. If you notice severe pain or notice a foul odor, please contact your dentist as soon as possible.
We also recommend avoiding heavy lifting, drinking hot drinks, and chewing vigorously after this procedure as you may disrupt the healing that is taking place.
Watch for Signs of Infection
It’s important that you monitor yourself for a fever and prolonged pain and swelling. If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.
About Krengel Dental
At Krengel Dental, we’re not your average dentist. We do everything we can to help your smile shine. If you’re looking for the best dentist in Bloomington, MN, we would love to help you. Not in Bloomington, MN but live nearby? Be sure to check out our St. Louis Park location. Visit our contact page to book an appointment with us.
