What to look out for after wisdom tooth removal?
In our previous post, we detailed the problems wisdom teeth can cause. To prevent or eliminate these painful discomforts, wisdom tooth removal is the solution. However, in most cases – especially after a surgical procedure – recovery takes time. We can make this period easier by paying attention to a few details and following our dentist’s advice. After wisdom tooth removal, it’s worth following the points below!
Alleviate the symptoms!
The wound and blood clot forming where the wisdom tooth was are a natural part of the healing process, so you should not poke them with your tongue or fingers. Avoid rinsing and do not suck on the area. The use of straws should also be avoided. When brushing your teeth, also be careful not to touch the wound with your toothbrush. However, regular and thorough tooth cleaning should not be skipped, as maintaining excellent oral hygiene is very important. Do this with a soft toothbrush. The area around the wound can be cleaned with a cotton swab.
It is possible that swelling or even facial swelling may occur after the procedure. In such cases, you can alleviate the discomfort with ice packs. It is important to apply ice for 5 minutes, then take a break for at least 15 minutes! If purple bruises also appear, comfrey cream can work wonders. For pain that lasts a few days, you can safely use painkillers you already have at home. In some cases, trismus (lockjaw) may occur, for which gentle massage can provide relief.
Advice regarding eating and drinking
While the anesthetic is still active, it’s best not to consume anything, not even water, as you could easily choke or bite your mouth/tongue. After this, only a few rules need to be followed for a quicker recovery. For a few days, it’s advisable to avoid consuming raw dairy products (those with live cultures), so starting your meal with yogurt, for example, is not a good idea. For cooking, you can, of course, use your usual products. You should also eliminate foods with seeds, poppy seeds, or nuts from your diet for a while, as well as popcorn, rice, sesame seeds, and cereals. In addition, carbonated and alcoholic beverages should be avoided for at least a week. Speaking of alcohol – although it’s not related to eating – it’s also important to mention that smoking should also be avoided for at least the first week.
Other recommendations for the period after wisdom tooth removal
In addition to the above, it is especially important to rest a lot so that the affected area regenerates as quickly as possible and recovery involves as little pain as possible. Therefore, it is advisable to suspend sports for a while. Heavy physical work and the more strenuous parts of housework should also be avoided, and if necessary, ask for help with these! Bending over is also not recommended. It is best to skip saunas and hot baths from your schedule for a while, as these are not good at all during the healing period. Furthermore, drafts should be avoided, and air conditioning is also not beneficial.
If your treating physician deems it necessary, they may prescribe an antibiotic course after wisdom tooth removal. In this case, it is very important to take the correct dose for the appropriate duration, as this is the only way to achieve the desired effect.
Don’t be alarmed if you feel protruding parts with your tongue in the operated area! These are parts of the tooth socket that will slowly move under the gum and smooth out. The cavity felt where the wisdom tooth was is also a temporary phenomenon; it will be gone within 4-6 months.
After upper wisdom tooth removal, blowing your nose should be done carefully, or in some cases, not at all. Of course, your dentist will inform you if you need to be careful about this.
