Wisdom teeth recovery can be a bit uncomfortable, but with the right care, you can avoid most issues and heal quickly. Knowing the dos and don’ts after wisdom tooth extraction will save you from unnecessary pain and complications. Let’s dive into what you should do, what you must avoid, and when to get help from your dentist.

What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

To recover smoothly, follow these steps carefully:

Rest is key. Take it easy for at least 48 hours. Skip workouts, heavy lifting, or anything that requires effort.
Use cold compresses. Applying ice on your cheek during the first day will help control swelling. Do it for 15 minutes on and off.
Keep the area clean. After the first 24 hours, rinse gently with warm saltwater. This keeps bacteria away.
Eat soft foods only. Choose mashed potatoes, yogurt, applesauce, or smoothies. Avoid anything hard or crunchy for a week.
Follow your dentist’s instructions. Take prescribed painkillers and antibiotics on time, and don’t stop medications early.

By following these tips, you’ll reduce swelling, prevent complications, and feel better sooner.

What to Avoid After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

There are certain habits and foods you must avoid to let the healing process work:

Don’t smoke or chew tobacco. Smoking can cause dry socket, a painful condition where the blood clot dislodges.
Avoid using straws. The suction from a straw can disturb the clot, causing bleeding or delayed healing.
Don’t eat spicy or acidic foods. These can irritate the wound and increase pain.
Keep your fingers and tongue away from the area. Touching the surgical site can introduce bacteria and lead to infection.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol interferes with the healing process and may react with your medications.

Staying away from these actions will prevent serious problems like wisdom tooth removal infection.

How to Manage Pain and Swelling

Pain and swelling are normal after wisdom tooth extraction, but they shouldn’t last too long. Here’s how to handle them:

Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications from your dentist will ease discomfort.
Apply ice packs during the first day to control swelling. After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses.
Keep your head elevated when sleeping. This helps reduce swelling and prevents extra pressure on the extraction site.

If the pain persists beyond the worst day of pain after wisdom tooth extraction, reach out to your dentist.

When to Contact Your Dentist

While most people recover without major issues, complications can happen. Call your dentist if you experience any of the following:

Pain that worsens instead of improving or lasts longer than expected.
Swelling that makes it hard to open your mouth or causes an asymmetrical face after wisdom tooth removal.
Signs of wisdom tooth removal infection, such as fever, foul taste, or yellow/white pus at the site.
Bleeding that doesn’t stop even after biting down on gauze for 20 minutes.
Numbness or tingling in your tongue, lips, or chin that doesn’t go away after the anesthetic wears off.

At Smile Makeover of LA, we are always here to help if something doesn’t feel right during your recovery. Don’t hesitate to call us at (818) 578-2324 or visit our clinic at 501 West Glenoaks Boulevard, Suite 204, Glendale, CA. Our team is ready to assist you with any post-extraction concerns. Contact us today!

Conclusion

Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction may seem overwhelming, but following these dos and don’ts after wisdom tooth extraction will ensure a quicker and safer healing process. Rest, eat wisely, avoid harmful habits, and call your dentist if something feels off. If you’re in Glendale, trust Smile Makeover of LA for expert care. Your comfort and health are our priority!

Frequently Asked Questions About Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction comes with many questions. Below are clear answers to some of the most common concerns.

Can I brush my teeth after wisdom tooth extraction?

Yes, but wait at least 24 hours before brushing near the extraction site. Be gentle and avoid disturbing the area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, and don’t spit forcefully.

When can I smoke after wisdom tooth extraction?

Avoid smoking for at least 72 hours after the procedure. Smoking increases the risk of dry socket and delays healing.

Can I eat ice cream after wisdom tooth extraction?

Yes, eating ice cream can help soothe the area. Stick to plain, soft flavors and avoid crunchy toppings.

When to stop using gauze after wisdom tooth extraction?

You can stop using gauze once the bleeding has slowed significantly, usually after 2-3 hours. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze and contact your dentist if it doesn’t improve.

When can I use mouthwash after wisdom tooth extraction?

Wait at least 5-7 days before using mouthwash. Instead, rinse with warm saltwater to keep the area clean during the early healing stage.

How long should I take painkillers after wisdom tooth extraction?

Follow your dentist’s prescription. Over-the-counter painkillers can be taken for 2-3 days or as needed for discomfort.

How to help swelling after wisdom tooth extraction?

Apply ice packs to the outside of your cheek during the first 24 hours. Use warm compresses after 48 hours if swelling persists. Keeping your head elevated while sleeping also helps reduce swelling.

Can you eat before wisdom tooth extraction with local anesthesia?

Yes, you can eat a light meal a few hours before the procedure if it’s done under local anesthesia. Avoid heavy or greasy foods. For sedation procedures, follow your dentist’s instructions.

Do you get stitches after wisdom tooth extraction?

Sometimes, yes. Stitches may be placed to close the wound, especially for impacted extractions. Some stitches dissolve on their own, while others require removal by your dentist.