Recover Correctly from Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Recovering from any surgical procedure requires rest and following doctor’s instructions; wisdom teeth extraction is no exception. In order to minimize post-treatment discomfort and ensure a successful recovery, here are some helpful do’s and don’ts to consider.

Post-operational Dos

•  Replace the gauze placed over the wound every few hours. If bleeding continues beyond the first 24 hours, call Dr. Patel to schedule an emergency follow-up appointment.
• Use ice packs for the first 24 hours. Try holding the packs outside your cheek for 15-20 minute increments at a time. After the first day, you can apply a warm washcloth to the outside of your cheek for the following days.
•  Stick to soft foods. Wait to reintroduce solid foods into your diet until the healing process is well underway.
• Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day. Try mixing 1tsp of salt water with 8 ounce of warm water.
• Take Motrin or other pain reliever to soothe any discomfort. General discomfort is expected during the post-operational stage, however many of our patients find their pain easily managed with over-the-counter medication. If you find the extraction site particularly sore, Dr. Patel recommends trying SockIt! Gel. When applied inside the socket, the oral gel effectively numbs the area. 
• Maintain your oral hygiene regimen. It is recommended that you brush your teeth post-operation to remove any bacteria and plaque build-up. Remember to be gentle around the surgical sites.

Post-operational Don’ts

•  Avoid lying flat, as this may prolong bleeding.
• Do not smoke cigarettes or use a straw for the first few days following surgery, as the suction force can prevent clotting. Smoking can also introduce bacteria to the surgical site, increasing your chances of post-operational infection.
• When possible, do not touch the wound. Prodding it with your tongue or fingers can introduce bacteria to the surgical site, increasing your chances of infection as well as slowing recovery time.
• Limit physical activity. While you might feel fine once the initial symptoms have worn off, it is important to remember that you are in the post-operative stage. Physical exertion can increase bleeding and prevent the wound from clotting.

During recovery, it is important to remember is not to rush the process. While the procedure may have been minor, your body is still recovering. Ignoring post-surgery instructions can cause other complications to arise, such as dry socket, infection, or damage to the surrounding teeth, jaw, or nerves.

By fully following Dr. Patel’s post-operation instructions, you can enjoy a successful post-wisdom teeth surgery recovery. For more information on wisdom teeth extraction, contact our Lorton and Springfieldoffice to schedule an extraction consultation.