July 17, 2022

Wisdom teeth extraction aftercare

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure. Most people have their wisdom teeth removed in their late teens or early twenties. However, there are some cases where wisdom tooth extraction is necessary after the age of 30. Whether you're a young adult or a more mature adult, it's crucial to take proper care of your mouth after surgery.

 If you need wisdom tooth extraction services in Idaho Falls, visit us at Taylorview Dental. Our dentists are more than happy to help you walk through every step of your procedure and answer any questions or concerns about wisdom tooth extraction aftercare. Visit us today to get started! Here are wisdom tooth extraction aftercare tips.

Visit Your Dentist For A Follow-Up Appointment

When it comes to wisdom tooth extraction aftercare tips, one of the most important is to visit your dentist for a follow-up appointment. This appointment will ensure that your extraction sites are healed properly. 

Your dentist will also give you specific instructions on how to care for your mouth after surgery. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.

Take Painkillers As prescribed By Your Dentist 

The first few days after wisdom teeth removal are usually the most painful. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication to help you through this time. Follow the instructions on how to take them. Many people do not like taking medication, but it is important to take painkillers as they will help you recover more quickly.

Apply Ice Packs

Ice packs can help to reduce swelling. Place ice on the outside of your jaw near the extraction site for 20 minutes at a time. Repeat this process as often as necessary for the first few days. With time, the swelling will go down.

Keep Your Head Elevated

Try to sleep with your head propped up on a few pillows. This will help to keep the blood from rushing to your head and causing more swelling.

Avoid Drinking Through A Straw

Sucking on a straw can dislodge the blood clot that is forming in the extraction site. This can lead to a painful condition called dry socket. Dry sockets are painful and can prolong your healing time.

To avoid this, do not drink through a straw for at least 24 hours after wisdom teeth removal.

Be Careful With Your Diet

You will probably have difficulty chewing for a few days after surgery. Ensure that you eat soft and non-spicy foods for a few days after wisdom teeth removal. Avoid hot foods and drinks, crunchy foods, and anything that requires a lot of chewing. Eating softer foods will help you avoid irritating the extraction sites and will promote healing. As you start to feel better, you can add other easy-to-chew foods to your diet.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

It is important to practice good oral hygiene after wisdom teeth removal. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day. Be sure to brush gently around the extraction sites. You can also use an antiseptic mouthwash to help keep the area clean.

Do Not Smoke

Avoid smoking as it delays healing and increases the risk of complications after surgery. Smoking causes dry sockets, which is a painful condition that can prolong your healing time. If you smoke, it is best to quit at least 2 weeks before your surgery. This will give your body time to heal and reduce the risk of complications.

If you cannot quit smoking, it is best to wait at least 72 hours after wisdom teeth removal before smoking. This will give your extraction sites time to heal and reduce the risk of dry sockets.

Rinse With Warm Salt Water After Meals

Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after meals can help to keep the extraction sites clean and reduce the risk of infection. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. Spit the water out and repeat as necessary.

These are some of wisdom tooth extraction aftercare tips. Following these tips will help you to recover quickly and reduce the risk of complications. If you are looking to have your wisdom tooth extracted or have concerns about your healing, be sure to visit us at Taylorview Dental, 333315 S Holmes, Idaho Falls. Our dentists will be happy to talk with you about your options and provide you with more specific wisdom tooth extraction aftercare instructions. Besides Oral Surgery, we also offer other services such as Cosmetic, General Dentistry, and Dental Implants. Contact us today at (208) 522-4491 to book an appointment. Thank you for choosing Taylorview Dental!