Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure, often necessary to prevent or resolve issues such as pain, infection, or crowding. Diligent post-operative care is crucial for a comfortable recovery and to minimize complications. Following specific guidelines after extraction aids proper healing.
Immediate Care and Pain Management
Controlling bleeding is a primary concern immediately after wisdom teeth removal. Patients should bite down on a gauze pad over the surgical site for 30 to 45 minutes, repeating if active bleeding continues. If bleeding persists or becomes heavy, replace the gauze and apply firm pressure for another 30-45 minutes. A moist black tea bag can also be used for 20-30 minutes, as its tannic acid aids in clot formation.
Reducing swelling is also important. Apply an ice pack to the outside of the face over the surgical area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 to 48 hours to minimize inflammation. After 36-48 hours, if swelling persists, moist heat application can be beneficial. Elevating the head with pillows, even while sleeping, helps reduce fluid accumulation and swelling.
Pain management should begin before the local anesthetic wears off. Take prescribed pain medications as directed. For moderate pain, a combination of over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be more effective than opioids. Rest is crucial during the initial 24 to 48 hours, allowing the body to focus on healing and tissue repair. This helps minimize bleeding and supports stable blood clot formation.
Maintaining Oral Health and Promoting Healing
Dietary adjustments are essential to protect surgical sites and promote healing. For the first 24 hours, consume only very soft foods or liquids that require no chewing, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, or lukewarm soup. Over the next few days, gradually introduce semi-soft foods like eggs, pasta, or soft vegetables. Avoid hot, crunchy, crumbly, or chewy foods, and those with small grains or seeds, which can irritate the wound or get lodged in the extraction site. Avoid using straws for several days, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a painful dry socket.
Maintaining oral hygiene is critical for preventing infection. Avoid brushing near the extraction site on the day of surgery, but gently brush other teeth the day after. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild toothpaste. Beginning 24 hours after surgery, gently rinse the mouth with warm salt water (a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day, especially after meals, to keep the area clean and reduce bacteria. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting to protect the blood clot.
Activity restrictions are important to prevent complications. Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or activities that could increase blood pressure for at least 24-48 hours, and often for 3-5 days, as these can dislodge the blood clot and cause bleeding. Smoking should be avoided for at least 72 hours, ideally for a week, as it significantly impairs healing and increases the risk of dry socket.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
While some discomfort and swelling are normal after wisdom teeth removal, certain signs indicate a need for professional evaluation. Persistent or worsening pain that does not improve with medication, especially if it increases after a few days, can be a sign of complications like dry socket or infection. Dry socket typically involves severe pain and may be accompanied by a foul odor or taste.
Signs of infection include increased swelling, redness, pus or discharge from the extraction site, a persistent foul odor or taste, and fever. If swelling spreads beyond the immediate surgical area, or if a fever develops, seek immediate medical attention.
Some oozing and light bleeding are expected for up to 48 hours. However, excessive or continuous heavy bleeding beyond 24 hours is not normal and requires contacting your dental professional. Bleeding that necessitates frequent gauze changes or involves bright red blood or large clots needs attention. Persistent numbness in the lip, chin, or tongue beyond the local anesthetic’s expected duration, though rare, should also be reported.