Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. Proper post-operative care, especially regarding physical activity, is fundamental for a smooth recovery. Careful management of physical activity prevents complications and ensures optimal healing.
Initial Recovery Period
The first 24 to 72 hours after wisdom teeth removal are crucial for healing. A stable blood clot must form in the empty tooth socket. This clot acts as a protective barrier for underlying bone and nerves, and serves as a foundation for new tissue. Early physical activity can disrupt this delicate process.
Increased blood pressure from physical exertion can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket. This painful condition exposes bone and nerves, causing intense pain that can radiate to the ear, eye, or temple, and may also result in bad breath or an unpleasant taste.
Exercise can also increase bleeding and swelling at the surgical site, prolonging discomfort and delaying healing. Complete rest is advised for the first 24 hours. Avoid activities that raise heart rate, involve heavy lifting, or require bending over. If general anesthesia was used, exercising while groggy poses a safety risk.
Light Activity Guidelines
After the initial recovery phase, typically days 3 to 7, individuals can gradually reintroduce light physical activity. This allows for further healing while minimizing disturbance to the extraction site. Gentle movements like walking, light stretching, or non-strenuous household tasks are appropriate. These activities promote circulation without stressing the healing area.
Listen closely to your body during this stage. Stop any activity that causes pain, throbbing, or increased bleeding immediately. Stay well-hydrated, but avoid straws, as suction can dislodge the blood clot. Continue to avoid jumping, heavy lifting, or positions where the head is below the heart. For instance, light yoga or pilates may be acceptable, but skip inverted poses.
Full Exercise Clearance
Strenuous exercise typically resumes after about one week, once significant healing has occurred. Individual recovery times vary based on extraction complexity, number of teeth removed, and whether they were upper or lower wisdom teeth. For example, upper wisdom teeth removal might allow light activity sooner (around five days), while lower extractions may require a longer wait (up to 10 days or more).
Before resuming high-impact activities, weightlifting, or contact sports, consult your oral surgeon or dentist. They can assess healing and provide personalized clearance. After receiving clearance, gradually reintroduce strenuous activities to avoid overexertion and allow the body to adapt. Monitor for discomfort, swelling, or renewed bleeding; if these occur, reduce or stop activity.