Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare

If you or a family member is scheduled to have wisdom teeth removal surgery, there are a few things you need to know. Although it’s a very common and safe procedure, it’s critical to take good care of yourself so you can have a smooth recovery after surgery. Between our expertise and your self-care post-op, you should be back to feeling like yourself in nearly no time. Here are few key care tips to keep in mind:

You won’t feel anything during the surgery and it will go by fast, but following wisdom teeth extraction, you’ll be groggy from anesthesia. You’ll need assistance traveling safely home, getting into bed, taking any prescribed medication, and eating. A friend or family member should be there for a few hours to be sure you’re comfortable and able to rest.

Take it easy after your surgery. Stay off your feet and get plenty of sleep. Be gentle with yourself, as you would if you were sick. The more you can follow this rule for the first 24 hours, the smoother the healing process will be.

You’ll need to stop smoking or using tobacco products for at least 24 hours following your procedure. The longer you can resist, the better. Quitting altogether is highly recommended.

As the sedation begins to wear off after surgery, your mouth will be tender and sore. You’ll need to eat soft foods like purees, applesauce, mashed sweet potatoes, smoothies, low-sugar yogurt, and avocado.

Hydration is vital for healing. Drink plenty of water, just not through a straw.

Drinking through straws and smoking cigarettes can increase your risk of getting dry sockets, which are caused by prematurely dislodged blood clots. The exposed surgical sites are incredibly painful and prone to infection. Avoid drinking through straws until you’ve completely healed!

Gently rinse with warm salt water to remove food particles and bacteria from around the extraction sites. This will help reduce your risk of infection, as well as bad breath. But be sure to avoid vigorous swishing and gargling, which can dislodge your blood clots.

If we prescribed medication, take EXACTLY as prescribed. If you have any questions regarding side effects or dosage, contact our office.

On occasion, despite your best efforts, complications after wisdom teeth removal surgery can occur. If you notice excessive bleeding, swelling, increasing pain, or a fever, call our office ASAP.

If you have an upcoming extraction scheduled, please know that we’ll take good care of you. And as always, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team with any questions about your surgery or your homecare instructions. We are here to help!