What to Expect During the Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Process

Your dentist may have greeted you with, “It’s time to take your wisdom teeth out.”

Wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure. Your dentist may refer you to an oral surgeon if your wisdom teeth are impacted. Continue reading to learn more about wisdom tooth extraction recovery.

What to Eat After Having Your Wisdom Teeth Removed

Once you’ve had your wisdom teeth removed, it is essential to maintain a nutritious diet to aid with recovery.

You will be limited to soft foods following surgery to avoid irritating your incision site. A few examples of nutritious soft meal ideas include:

  • Smoothies
  • Blended soups
  • Instant oatmeal
  • Applesauce
  • Mashed bananas

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Complications

Although wisdom tooth extraction is a straightforward procedure, complications can occur with any surgery. Pain and swelling are expected during one to three days following surgery.

You may experience excessive bleeding within the first eight to twelve hours after your surgery. Do not be alarmed by this. Bleeding is normal as your blood will need to clot over the extraction site.

Alveolar Osteitis or dry sockets can occur after wisdom teeth removal. Alveolar Osteitis occurs when a blood clot becomes dislodged from your incision site, and the nerve under your gums is left exposed to air.

Less common wisdom tooth extraction complications include lip numbness. If your inferior alveolar nerve becomes damaged during surgery, this can cause numbness in the jaw or lips.

Your dentist or oral surgeon will send you home with at-home care instructions following surgery. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully and contact your doctor right away if you are experiencing intense pain or show signs of infection.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Recovery

In addition to your doctor-provided at-home care instructions, these quick tips will help you have a smooth and speedy recovery.

In the first step in your wisdom tooth recovery process, your dentist or oral surgeon will ask you to bite down on gauze pads gently. Biting down on gauze pads allows blood clots to form, which is crucial for your recovery.

To avoid looking like you just got out of a boxing ring with Mike Tyson, icing your cheeks and jaw will help ease the swelling and bruising that may occur following your surgery.

How to Determine if Wisdom Teeth Extraction Is the Best Choice for You

If you are experiencing pain and discomfort from impacted wisdom teeth, consult with your dentist or oral surgeon. Keep in mind your wisdom teeth may not need to be removed if your teeth are healthy and positioned correctly.

If you are experiencing pain, repeated infection, gum disease, or excessive tooth decay, follow up with your dentist to determine the best course of action. Typically wisdom teeth removal cost varies depending on if you need one tooth or all four wisdom teeth extracted.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery

Have a wisdom tooth extraction recovery plan before scheduling an appointment to remove your wisdom teeth. Although wisdom teeth removal is a standard procedure, having a plan will ensure a smooth transition once you return home. If you are currently working, plan on taking time off from work.

If you have small children at home, make arrangements for childcare during your procedure and the first twenty-four hours following surgery if needed. Check out our blog for more home and health tips.

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