Recovery Timeline After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Day-by-Day Guide
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure. For most people, wisdom teeth are problematic, either coming in crooked or not at all due to lack of space in the jaw. In these cases it is best to have the wisdom teeth removed, usually between the ages of 17 and 25.
If you have an upcoming appointment for wisdom teeth extraction, you may be wondering what you can expect afterwards. Here’s a day-by-day guide to help you through your wisdom teeth recovery.
What to Expect Immediately After Surgery
Everyone’s wisdom teeth removal procedure is different based on your individual needs and the type of anesthesia you have. Immediately following your procedure, you will spend a brief time in recovery until you are ready to go home. If you had any form of sedation, you may feel groggy or disoriented for a little while.
When you are ready to go home you will be given instructions for managing bleeding and swelling, such as gauze and ice packs. You’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you to provide care.
Day 1: The First 24 Hours
For the first 24 hours you may have some minor bleeding. If bleeding doesn’t stop or is severe, contact your oral surgeon. Pain can be managed with over the counter medication or with prescription medication depending on your preference.
Eat only liquids and soft foods for the first 24 hours following your procedure. Do not drink from a straw for the first 3 days to prevent dry socket. Avoid hot or spicy foods and beverages. Things like yogurt, applesauce, pudding, and jello are good options.
Days 2-3: Managing Swelling and Discomfort
In the first few days following your procedure you may experience heightened swelling and discomfort. Continue to take pain medication and apply ice to the side of the face and jaw where swelling is most prominent.
You can begin to eat more solid foods, but stick to soft items that don’t require chewing. Continue to avoid hot or spicy foods and beverages as these can irritate sensitive tissues. Still avoid drinking from a straw.
Rinse your mouth a few times a day with lukewarm salt water to dislodge any food particles and to accelerate healing. You can brush your teeth, but be careful to avoid the back of your mouth where your wisdom teeth were removed.
Days 4-7: Signs of Progress
By the 4th day you should notice an improvement in your symptoms. Swelling and pain will begin to subside. You may still need over the counter pain medication, but not necessarily prescription strength.
It is safe to gradually return to your normal daily activities, but avoid strenuous exercise. You can begin eating more solid foods, such as scrambled eggs, cheese, and soft fruits and vegetables. Reintroduce foods gradually according to your comfort level.
Week 2: Nearing Full Recovery
You will notice by the second week following your procedure that you are nearly back to normal. If you had stitches they will most likely have dissolved, but you may have them removed at a follow-up appointment with your surgeon.
You can fully resume your regular level of activity, even exercising if you feel ready. It is safe to brush and floss your teeth normally.
When to Call Your Oral Surgeon
If you experience any of the of the following symptoms, contact your oral surgeon for further instructions:
- Prolonged pain
- Fever
- Continued bleeding
- Excessive swelling
- Any unusual symptoms
Dry socket or infection are common post-operative complications that need to be addressed promptly. Don’t hesitate to contact us at Braasch OMS if anything about your recovery seems abnormal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Recovery
When is it safe to drink from a straw?
We recommend waiting at least 3 days to drink from a straw following wisdom teeth removal. The sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot in the socket, which is necessary for proper healing. The result is a condition called dry socket, which can be painful and delay recovery.
Can I smoke after getting my wisdom teeth out?
While we recommend not smoking at all, at the very least it is best to wait until you are fully healed, which is at least 2 weeks. Smoking can delay healing and has numerous other health risks.
Braasch Oral Surgery offers a wide range of oral surgery procedures from wisdom teeth removal to dental implant placement. Serving Bedford, NH and the surrounding area, our doctors and staff provide top quality, compassionate care. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to schedule a consultation.