Post-operative instructions for wisdom teeth removal
Learn essential post-operative care tips for wisdom teeth removal to promote healing and prevent complications.
Wisdom teeth removal is considered a dental rite of passage for many people. It’s a common procedure, since most of us don’t have enough room in our jaws for an extra set of four teeth.
Even though it’s a routine procedure, recovery time can take up to a few weeks. Taking good care of yourself after surgery is key to easing the discomfort, healing faster and avoiding any hiccups along the way.
Let’s break down what to expect after getting your wisdom teeth removed, and share some tips to help you recover like a pro. Have questions or think it’s time to say goodbye to your wisdom teeth right now? Schedule an appointment with your Aspen Dental team today.
Benefits of removing wisdom teeth
The third molars, or wisdom teeth, often cause more harm than good when they start surfacing. The truth is most people don’t have the jaw space to accommodate them, which is why dentists recommend removing them.
5 healthy benefits of wisdom teeth removal
Protects your teeth and bones: When wisdom teeth grow in, they can push against other teeth or bones, especially if they’re impacted. Taking them out helps avoid damage.
Prevents overcrowding: There's usually not enough room for wisdom teeth. They can mess up the alignment of your other teeth. Removing them can help keep your smile looking great.
Reduces the risk of infections: Wisdom teeth can create little pockets where bacteria like to hide, increasing the chance of infections.
Avoids bigger issues: Impacted wisdom teeth can sometimes lead to cysts or tumors. Removing them can help you steer clear of these complications.
Makes oral hygiene easier: Without wisdom teeth, it’s easier to keep your mouth clean and practice healthy oral hygiene, reducing your risk of gum disease and cavities.
What to expect after wisdom teeth removal
Numbness: Right after surgery, you’ll probably feel numb around the treated area due to anesthesia.
Mild to moderate pain: Once the anesthesia wears off, you might feel some soreness or discomfort. It’ll likely peak in the first three days, then start to ease up.
Swelling: Don’t be surprised if your cheeks or jaw get puffy—it’s totally normal and a good sign that you’re healing.
Bruising: Some bruises might appear on your face, but no worries—they usually fade in a few days.
Bleeding: A bit of light bleeding is common for the first 24 hours. If it seems excessive, contact your dentist at Aspen Dental.
Limited mouth opening: Feeling like your jaw is stiff? That’s normal too, and it’ll get better with time as you heal.
Diet changes: Soft, easy-to-eat foods like mashed potatoes or yogurt are your best bets while you heal. Learn more about what to eat and drink after wisdom teeth removal here.
Fatigue: Feeling drowsy after sedation is normal, so don’t worry if you need extra rest. Your body is working hard to heal those extraction sites, and a little downtime can go a long way.
Bad breath or taste: Bad breath is common after tooth extraction. Keeping up with gentle but proper oral hygiene and rinsing can help freshen things up.
After care for wisdom teeth removal
Taking care of yourself after getting your wisdom teeth out is super important. Proper aftercare can help you heal faster, avoid complications and get back to your routine. Here are some easy and general tips to follow, but also consult with your dentist for post-care instructions:
Information contained is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute professional dental advice or consultations with dental professionals. The content is not meant to be complete or exhaustive or to apply to any specific individual's dental condition. Always refer to the personalized information given to you by your doctor or contact us directly.
Leave gauze in for 30 minutes after surgery
After surgery, the gauze pad helps control bleeding and allows a blood clot to form. Leave it in for at least 30 minutes. Once you remove it, you can replace it with fresh gauze if needed. When replacing the gauze after 30 minutes, dampen the gauze with clean water, as placing a dry gauze can pull the clot out. Try to avoid talking or eating too much during the first few hours so the clot can do its thing and form properly.
Use ice packs
It’s normal to feel some swelling and soreness around your cheeks and jaw after the procedure. Ice packs are your best friend on the day of surgery. Wrap one in a thin towel and place it on the area for 20 minutes, then take a 20-minute break. Repeat as needed for 24-28 hours to help with swelling and discomfort.
Take any prescribed medications
Your dentist or oral surgeon might prescribe painkillers or antibiotics to help you heal and prevent infection. Make sure to take them exactly as instructed. If you didn’t get a prescription, ask your provider about over-the-counter pain relief options to stay comfortable.
Practice gentle oral care
Oral hygiene is still important while you heal, but you’ll need to be extra gentle around the extraction sites. Brush your teeth 2-3 times a day but avoid rinsing and spitting. Just lean over the sink and let everything run out gently. Avoid flossing directly at the surgical site as well, so you don’t interfere with healing.
Get plenty of rest
Healing takes energy, so take it easy for at least 24 hours after your surgery. Avoid strenuous activities, as they can raise your blood pressure and cause more bleeding. Make sure to get plenty of sleep and keep your head elevated to reduce swelling. Place an old towel on your pillow for protection, as a few drops of blood mixed with saliva can look like a lot of blood.
What to avoid after wisdom teeth removal
Here’s what you’ll want to steer clear of after getting your wisdom teeth removed:
Drinking through straws: That suction can dislodge the blood clot and lead to a dry socket. Avoid straws at all costs.
Eating the wrong foods: Hard, chewy, tough, spicy or acidic foods can irritate the area or cause a dry socket. Skip alcohol and fizzy drinks too. Stick to soft, room-temperature foods instead.
Tobacco use: Nicotine slows down healing and smoking can create a suction that risks a dry socket. Avoid it if you can.
Vigorous rinsing and spitting: Keep it gentle. Too much force could irritate the area or dislodge the clot.
Strenuous activity: Take it easy for at least 24 hours—no heavy lifting or intense workouts.
Lying flat: Prop yourself up a bit to avoid swelling or pooling blood at the site.
Touching the site: It’s tempting but don’t mess with the area. You could dislodge the clot or introduce bacteria.
Skipping aftercare instructions: Your dentist knows best. Follow their advice to heal properly and avoid complications.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
Recovering from wisdom teeth removal usually takes about 1-2 weeks. Your recovery timeline can depend on a few things:
Complexity of the extraction: Removing one or two non-impacted teeth usually means a faster recovery compared to removing all four, especially if they’re impacted.
Overall health: Good oral and general health can lead to a smoother and quicker healing process.
Age: Older patients might take longer to heal, even if they’re otherwise healthy.
Smoking and drinking: Do not drink or smoke immediately following your procedure or during your healing. Smoking is particularly risky as it can cause dry sockets, and both smoking and drinking slow down recovery.
Diet and hydration: Stick to soft, nutrient-rich foods (like smoothies and soups) and stay hydrated to help your body heal faster.
Most people feel much better after the first few days but it’s important to give yourself the full recovery time so your body can properly heal. Take it easy and listen to the advice your Aspen Dental care team gives you.
Post-operative instructions for wisdom teeth removal FAQs
How long after wisdom teeth removal can I eat?
Stick to soft or liquid foods once the anesthetic wears off, usually a few hours post-surgery. Gradually introduce firmer foods within 1–2 weeks as the site heals.
How many days should I take off for wisdom teeth removal recovery?
Plan to take 2-3 days off to relax and recover after getting your wisdom teeth out. If your job is physically demanding, though, it’s best to take the whole week off.
Try to avoid intense physical activity for at least a week. Light activity, such as walking, can be beneficial after a couple of days—just check with your dentist or surgeon to be sure.
What are some foods to avoid after wisdom teeth removal?
Try to steer clear of hard, chewy, crunchy or spicy foods—things like nuts, chips, tough meats, cereal and ultra-crisp veggies.
Also, stick to lukewarm meals and drinks. Anything too hot or cold can cause sensitivity or discomfort.
Do top or bottom wisdom teeth heal faster?
Upper wisdom teeth usually heal faster because this area of the jawbone isn’t as dense as the lower one. Since it’s less dense, it takes less time to recover and get back to normal.
Follow all post-operative instructions after wisdom teeth removal
Wisdom teeth extraction requires proper aftercare for a smooth, complication-free recovery. Be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions, rest for a few days and use prescribed or over-the-counter medication as needed to manage symptoms.
Taking care of your oral health doesn’t stop after the procedure. If you have questions about recovery or need additional support, our Aspen Dental care team is here to help. Schedule your appointment today.