Healing After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

What to Expect After Wisdom Tooth Extraction? 

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that doesn't take very long. Still, it puts a bit of strain on your body, so you can expect symptoms like: 

• Numbness in your lip or jaw due to the anesthesia 
• Swelling and bruising
• Pain and discomfort
• Minor bleeding or oozing 
• Stiff and sore jaw 
• Difficulty eating

While uncomfortable, all these symptoms are only temporary and should subside in a few days. If you don't notice any improvement in a couple of days or if your symptoms are getting worse, you should get in touch with your dentist immediately. You may have developed a condition known as a dry socket, where the blood clot is dislodged from the extraction site.

Tips for Healing Faster After Wisdom Tooth Extraction 

Here's what you can do to help speed up your recovery after a wisdom tooth extraction:

• Rest: In the first few days after the surgery, make sure to take it easy. Rest and avoid any strenuous activity, which could lead to increased bleeding.

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated. Don't use straws, though, as the suction can dislodge the clot and delay healing.

• Only Eat Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods for a few days after the extraction. Opt for nutritious options like yogurt, soup, scrambled eggs, etc. As your mouth heals, you can gradually return to your normal diet.

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: While you'll need to avoid brushing the surgical site for the first 24 hours, it's important to keep the rest of your mouth clean. After the first day, you can start gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to help keep the extraction site clean.

• Don't Smoke: Avoid smoking for at least 72 hours after the procedure, as it can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. The suction motion can also dislodge the blood clot and lead to a dry socket. 

• No Alcohol: Similarly to smoking, alcohol can slow down the healing process. So it's best to avoid it for a few days after the extraction.

• Sleep with Your Head Elevated: Lying flat can prolong bleeding and swelling. So, use extra pillows to prop your head up and speed up your healing.