With over 10 million wisdom teeth extractions performed every year according to some estimates, it’s one of the most common dental procedures. All the same, it’s completely natural to have a few questions about what to expect following the treatment! After all, it’s essential to care for your mouth properly after this surgery to prevent complications and ensure your recovery goes smoothly. Read on as your Richardson dentist answers a few common questions patients have right after their wisdom teeth are removed.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR MY MOUTH TO STOP BLEEDING?

The gauze placed over your surgery site should be kept in place for at least an hour after your surgery to help stop the bleeding. Replace it with a clean gauze every hour until heavy bleeding stops. Typically, you can expect some slight bleeding for at least several days. To minimize it, reduce physical activity and sit upright.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO MANAGE DISCOMFORT AND SWELLING?

If your dentist prescribes you pain medication, be sure to take it according to their instructions. You should also apply an ice pack or cold compress to the area for a day or two after your surgery to numb the discomfort and ease swelling. While you can take over-the-counter pain relievers, don’t take products that contain aspirin or ibuprofen, as these can make bleeding worse. If the pain doesn’t seem to lessen after three or four days, you should contact your dentist for assistance.

HOW DO I CLEAN MY MOUTH AFTER WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL SURGERY?

While it’s especially important to keep your mouth clean after your surgery, you need to be very careful not to accidentally dislodge the blood clot over the extraction site. Wait 24 hours to begin gently brushing your teeth, and avoid the extraction site. The day after your surgery you can rinse your mouth out with salt water. This should be done every few hours and after every meal for a week to prevent infection and ease swelling.

WHAT SHOULD I AVOID AFTER MY WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL SURGERY?

After your surgery you should avoid:

• Strenuous activity for a week.
• Using straws for a week.
• Eating hardy, crunchy, or sticky foods for a week.
• Alcoholic, caffeinated, carbonated, or hot beverages for the first 24 hours.
• Smoking for at least the first week or two.
• Chewing tobacco for a week.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECOVER FROM WISDOM TEETH REMOVAL SURGERY?

The length of the recovery period varies from person to person. While it may take up to two weeks for you to feel completely recovered, most patients get back to their regular activities after three to four days. However, you should avoid strenuous activity for at least a week to help keep the blot clot in place.

By taking it easy and following your dentist’s instructions, your recovery will be over before you know it. If you have any other questions or concerns after your procedure, you can always reach out to your dentist.

ABOUT THE PRACTICE

Breckinridge Dental & Orthodontics is proud to provide high-quality dental care for smiles of all ages in Richardson, TX, and the surrounding communities. Our talented team of dentists offers a wide range of services and treatments all under one roof to meet all of your family’s oral health needs. We use the latest dental techniques and state-of-the-art technology to make every treatment as pleasant as possible, including wisdom teeth extractions. If you have more questions about the wisdom teeth removal process, feel free to contact us via our website or at (972) 248-9119.