Wisdom teeth removal is a common surgical procedure, and proper post-operative care is essential for a quick recovery. Following your oral surgeon’s instructions minimizes complications and speeds up healing. Activity restrictions, including avoiding strenuous exercise and swimming, are standard protocols designed to protect the surgical sites.
The Initial Healing Phase and Swimming Restrictions
The primary goal following surgery is allowing a stable blood clot to form and remain securely within the tooth socket. Most oral surgeons advise waiting a minimum of five to seven days before considering a return to water activities, depending on the extraction’s complexity. This waiting period allows the tissue at the incision sites to begin closing and the blood clot to stabilize.
For strenuous activities like lap swimming or diving, a waiting period of one to two weeks is often recommended. The ability to safely return to the water is determined by physical signs of recovery, such as the absence of pain, bleeding, or significant swelling. You must receive explicit clearance from your oral surgeon before submerging your head or engaging in any water activity.
Risks Associated with Premature Swimming
Restrictions on swimming are based on two main medical concerns. The first is the risk of developing alveolar osteitis, or dry socket, which occurs when the protective blood clot is dislodged. Physical exertion, such as swimming, elevates heart rate and blood pressure, creating internal pressure that can push the clot out of the wound. The second major risk is introducing bacteria into the open surgical site, leading to infection. Since the extraction site is an open wound, water provides a direct pathway for microorganisms to enter the bloodstream before the tissue has adequately closed.
Distinguishing Between Pool and Natural Water
The environment introduces different levels of risk, but the primary concern remains clot disruption. Chlorinated swimming pools contain fewer bacteria than natural water, but they are not sterile. The force of swimming or the pressure from submerging your head can still disrupt the fragile blood clot, even in a well-maintained pool.
Natural bodies of water, such as lakes, oceans, rivers, and hot tubs, present a significantly higher risk of bacterial contamination. These environments harbor many microorganisms, making the chance of infection greater if the surgical wounds are not fully closed. You should extend your waiting time for natural water to allow for more complete healing of the extraction sites.
Other Post-Operative Activity Guidelines
For the first five to seven days, all vigorous physical activity must be avoided. This includes activities that elevate the heart rate, such as heavy lifting, running, and intense gym workouts. Any increase in blood pressure caused by exertion can lead to throbbing, increased swelling, or renewed bleeding at the surgical site. The general principle is to avoid anything that causes strain or a noticeable increase in discomfort near the jaw. You should gradually reintroduce exercise as you feel comfortable.