Do you still have your wisdom teeth? “Wisdom teeth” are the molars that are the furthest back in your mouth, and are often removed due to lack of space. They are generally ready for removal sometime during a person’s teenage years. Most young adults end up getting their wisdom teeth surgically removed at some point in their life.
Wisdom Teeth Recovery Tips
Whether you still need to get your wisdom teeth taken out or have someone close to you who is planning on getting the surgery, we are excited to share a few tips on how to experience the smoothest recovery possible.
Manage the pain carefully
There is a high chance that you will have some pain and swelling in the days directly following your surgery. One of the best ways to manage this pain is by using an ice pack. Make sure to ask your dentist about how often you should be using one. It is also important to not directly place ice on your face, as this can lead to an ice burn. Pain medication is another way to help your recovery along. Your dentist will be able to guide you in whether you need to be taking over-the-counter or prescription medications. You may also be advised to take antibiotics. Antibiotics will help protect your mouth from infection as the wounds heal.
Think about what you are eating during your wisdom teeth recovery
Finding the right foods to aid your recovery can help immensely. You may not have a considerable appetite directly after surgery, and your mouth will most likely be sore. The best foods to consume while recovering are those that won’t require much chewing and will be safe for your stitches. Soup, pudding, apple sauce, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and cottage cheese are all equally yummy and safe! You should also avoid foods that could potentially get stuck in the surgery site or are too hot. It is essential to avoid drinking from a straw, as slurping too aggressively may compromise your stitches or the blood clot that protects the surgery wound. The more careful you are with what you eat after your surgery, the sooner you’ll be able to re-introduce your usual favorite foods into your diet!
Take your recovery seriously when you get home
It is essential to take precautions when you get home from your surgery to avoid infections and other painful issues. Rinsing with salt water to keep the wounds clean and free of bacteria is one of the most simple and effective things you can regularly be doing. Make sure you don’t forcefully spit the saltwater when finished, but let it gently fall from your mouth. Your mouth will have some blood in it right after the surgery, so make sure to gently clean the wounds with gauze or a cotton ball after rinsing. It is also integral to avoid dislodging your stitches. This can disrupt the healing process and lead to dry sockets, which are painful and can cause a prolonged recovery process.
Wisdom teeth removal recovery should be treated as any other surgery recovery: with time and care. Proactively managing your pain, thinking about what you are eating, and keeping the surgery wounds clean are three straightforward ways to keep your recovery short and sweet! Make sure to heed your dentist’s recovery tips too. If you or someone you know has questions about the wisdom teeth surgery process, call us today at (972) 539-4776.