Post-Op: Wisdom Tooth Removal
Discomfort up to 7 days is normal after the extraction of wisdom teeth.
The gauze pad placed over the surgical area should be kept in place for a half hour. After this time, the gauze pad should be removed and discarded. If bleeding is still occurring, then new gauze should be placed and held in place with firm biting pressure. You may keep changing the gauze every 30 minutes, up to 2-3 hours, until the bleeding slows to a slight ooze or stops.The amount of bleeding will vary from person to person. Most of your bleeding will slow within 3 to 4 hours, but a small amount of bleeding is common for a day or two postop.
Begin salt-water rinses the day of surgery and continue for 1 week, or until you’re able to brush the site. Rinse with warm salt water gently 6 to 8 times each day. To make the salt-water solution, dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a small glass of warm water.
Swelling is normal after surgery and is a major cause of post-extraction discomfort. Pain and swelling typically peaks by the 4th day and then starts to resolve. For the first 24 hours after surgery, apply an ice pack to the side of your face for 10 minutes; transfer it to the opposite side for another 10 minutes. You can keep your head elevated on 2 pillows for 3 to 4 days. These measures will not eliminate swelling, but they will help to reduce its severity. It is normal for swelling or jaw stiffness to persist for several days after surgery.
When starting to drink and eat again, begin with clear liquids, such as a soft drink or apple juice. Gradually ramp up your diet as tolerated. Always cool down any hot foods or liquids during the first 24 hours to room temperature. You should eat only soft food for the first few days (noodles, soups, eggs, mashed potatoes, milkshakes or smoothies, yogurt, etc.). For 2 weeks (3-4 weeks if you had lower wisdom teeth extracted), do not eat hard, crunchy or very chewy foods (chips, popcorn, grits, etc.). To help prevent dry socket, do not use a straw for the first 5-7 days after surgery.
Begin brushing your teeth the day of surgery. Bacterial plaque and food accumulation near the extraction site can cause inflammation, pain, and infection.
Do not smoke for at least a week. Smoking will increase your bleeding; the nicotine and tar in tobacco impairs healing and may cause a dry socket.
Do no vigorous physical activity for a minimum of four days following your surgery. Physical activity increases your blood pressure, which will cause an increase in your swelling, pain, and bleeding. You may gradually increase your activity 7 days after your surgery.
Medication Overview
Narcotic Pain Medication: To control discomfort, take your first dose of pain medication before the anesthetic has worn off or as recommended. Take it as directed with food to prevent nausea.
Antibiotic: If an antibiotic was prescribed, continue to take them for the indicated length of time, even if all symptoms are gone.
Ibuprofen: anti-inflammatory meds are good adjuncts to reduce inflammation and pain. Take them as prescribed.