Nov
Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare Tips for a Speedy Recovery
Having your wisdom tooth extracted is important as it is a necessity rather than an option or choice. If you ignore this necessity, you may experience potential oral problems such as pain, infection, gum disease, and cyst formation. Addressing the issue early on can prevent further complications. So, here are 7 Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare tips that you should follow to ease up this process.
How Does the Story Begin?
At first, you’ll experience sensations of pain in your mouth. With painkillers, the pain can be manageable, but once the effect of the painkillers is over, you’ll again start experiencing the sharp pain in your mouth. Consistent experience of that pain may make you feel exhausted and drained out. You start yearning for a life free from this pain, where you can eat without the fear of subsequent agony.
Why Do We Experience Such Pain?
When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to come in properly, they can cause much pain. If you’re experiencing this, it’s best to see a dentist. They may recommend having the wisdom teeth removed.
Did You Know?
In ancient times, wisdom teeth were considered vestigial structures. Our ancestors used them to chew or crush tough foods like nuts, roots, and meat. But today, we use forks and knives to cut through those foods, so we don’t need wisdom teeth.
What Happens After a Wisdom Tooth Removal Procedure?
While you will certainly bid farewell to the pain that led to the extraction, the first few days post-procedure may bring some minor discomfort. However, this discomfort can be effectively managed by following the aftercare tips for Wisdom Teeth Removal.
- Keep the urge to spit and rinse your mouth at bay for 25 hours
Having whys? Here is the answer – The treated site is protected by the blood clot, which acts as a protective barrier. Rinsing or spitting will disrupt this blood clot, causing bleeding and exposing the treated site, leading to a condition called dry socket.
Symptoms: Excruciating pain in the area surrounding the socket or in the face, head & neck.
How long may this pain last? — For upto 10 days.
- Apply Ice-Packs for the first 48 Hours
Ice packs constrict blood vessels and minimize blood flow, limiting fluid buildup and avoiding swelling.
Pro-Tip: Apply for at least 20 mins. And then take a break of about 10 mins.
Correct Technique: Take a thin towel and wrap the ice in it. Keep applying it to the affected area or the outside of the face.
- Keep your head elevated for at least 2 Days
It is essential to keep the head elevated for about two days. Gravity helps reduce swelling and drain excessive fluids from the extraction site. It will also prevent blood from pooling around the wound, help eliminate post-operative discomfort, and promote immediate healing.
Usually, doctors suggest resting for a day, but the healing time and the duration of following post-operative instructions are different in every case. So, it is necessary to consider your condition when it comes to keeping your head elevated.
We know it will be difficult for you to sleep in that condition, but you will have to manage for a few days.
- Don’t smoke
You know that smoking creates a suction motion, which can dislodge the crucial blood clot. A dislodged blood clot can create a dry socket. It can delay the healing process. If you don’t want to suffer from more pain, then it is always suggested to avoid activities that can deteriorate your recovery process. Moreover, smoking constricts blood vessels, restricting the blood supply to that area.
- Keep massaging your jaw
While undergoing the procedure, your mouth was kept open for a prolonged period. This must have increased tension in your mouth and might have contributed to soreness in the jaw muscles. So, it is usually suggested that you massage your jaw 3 to 4 times a day for at least two days.
What benefits will you experience?
- Release of built-up tension
- Alleviation of pain
- Faster Recovery
- Be gentle on your jaw — Avoid any hard foods
Consuming soft foods is always recommended after a wisdom extraction procedure. Hard foods may irritate the treated site, or they can strain that site. So it is usually advocated to consume soft foods. Here are some examples of what you can have after wisdom tooth removal:
- Steamed soft vegetables
- Yogurt
- Mashed Potatoes
- Applesauce
- Pudding
- Scrambled Eggs
- Blended soups
- Soft Tofu
- Smoothies
- Jello
Tip: Consuming apples is essential for a healthy and speedy recovery. Since they are considered hard food, you can have them in pureed form.
- Don’t brush the teeth
Don’t brush your teeth for at least one full day after the surgery. We know you’ll feel the discomfort because one finds it difficult to start their day without brushing their teeth. It’s okay; it’s just a matter of day and everything will be fine in a couple of days, and you can finally return to your routine.
Conclusion
While tips and tactics can certainly expedite recovery, it’s crucial to remember that your mental desire to heal is the most powerful tool. Meditation is a valuable practice, especially for those who struggle with pain tolerance. It’s not about enduring pain but about finding peace within yourself. Remember, your active participation is crucial to your recovery journey.
