Best Tips for Recovery After a Wisdom Tooth Extraction

If you have recently sought wisdom teeth removal, you aren’t alone. Statistics show that over 5 million Americans seek wisdom tooth removal each year. That shows that wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental surgical procedures today.

 While the process is safe, it can however expose you to serious postoperative complications. Plus, recovering from wisdom teeth removal can take plenty of time for some patients. Luckily, you can do some simple things to pave way for a speedy recovery. Here are six useful tips for wisdom tooth extraction recovery to boost your recovery process. 

Keep Bleeding to a Minimum 

Your gum will bleed after wisdom tooth extraction. This is normal for everyone who recently had their wisdom teeth removed. Fortunately, you can control the bleeding by biting down on some gauze. Bite of the gauze firmly but don’t chew on it.

 Chewing on the gauze can worsen the bleeding. Alternatively, you can bite down a tea bag. The tannic acid present in the tea aids with blood clotting ultimately stopping excess bleeding after wisdom teeth removal.  

Maintain Proper Oral Hygiene 

Proper oral hygiene is essential after wisdom teeth extraction. Failing to maintain proper oral hygiene can aggravate swelling after undergoing wisdom tooth extraction. Avoid the surgical sites when brushing and flossing your teeth. 

Rinse your gum with saltwater at least five to 6 times daily. Rinsing your mouth will reduce the risk of getting infections after undergoing the procedure.  Salty water also helps in calming inflammation. 

Eat Soft Foods 

You should eat extremely soft foods for the first couple of days after wisdom teeth extraction. Some suitable soft foods to consume after the procedure include applesauce, eggs, and yoghurt. Graduate to other solid foods as you recover from wisdom teeth extraction. Some of the best solid foods to consume after the procedure include pasta and oatmeal. 

Avoid skipping meals since you will deny your body the nutrients it requires for speedy recovery. Keep your protein consumption high, since protein will help restore the worn-out tissues. Moreover, eat enough calories to help with speedy recovery. You can resume your normal diet within seven to ten days after wisdom tooth extraction procedure. 

Avoid Touching The Surgical Site

Whereas the surgical area might be tempting to touch after wisdom tooth removal, you shouldn’t however attempt to probe it. Touching the surgical area can only aggravate the swelling and pain. Avoid brushing the area. A gentle swish will keep inflammation at bay. Furthermore, it will prevent debris and food from accumulating around the surgical area. Don’t touch the surgical area until you recover fully from the procedure. 

Use Some Pain Medications 

Pain is an inevitable part of wisdom tooth extraction. It is actually the most challenging part of recovery after the procedure. Use pain medications to reduce the pain. Your dentist will recommend some pain medications after wisdom teeth removal. 

Have Plenty Of Ice

Place some ice on your cheek to reduce discomfort. Ice will also reduce bruising and swelling on the surgical area. Don’t place ice directly on the incision area.  It can worsen the pain and cause further discomfort. Keep the ice on your check for about 20 minutes once you experience discomfort. 

In Conclusion Regarding Extraction Recovery 

Recovering from wisdom tooth removal shouldn’t be a lengthy process. Instead, the recovery process can be smooth and less painful. You can expedite your recovery process by observing these six tips. Moreover, talk to us if recovery takes longer than usual.