Aftercare Wisdom Teeth Removal
by U Shine Dental � Maple-Vaughan | Oct 2, 2018
After wisdom teeth removal, the recovery process usually lasts just a few days. You have been prescribed painkillers by your dentist and they will help you cope with the pain. Beyond that here are some tips to help speed along your recovery.
- Periodically bite down gently on the gauze pad. Change the pad when it becomes soaked with blood. If you are still bleeding 24 hours after your surgery, call your dentist or surgeon.
- While your mouth is still numb, be careful not to bite your lip, tongue or inside of your mouth.
- Lie with your head propped up. Lying down flat may prolong any bleeding.
- Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Do this for the first 24 hours after the process.
- For the few days following removal, you may use moist heat. Soak a washcloth in warm water and wring it out. Apply to outside of cheek.
- Do not engage in physical activities as bleeding can increase. Relax after your surgery.
- Eat only soft foods. Pudding, jello and thin soups. As your healing progresses you may add solid foods to your diet � gradually.
- Avoid using a straw for a few days after surgery. Sucking on a straw can loosen the blood clot and healing will be delayed.
- Do a warm water and salt water rinse several times a day after the first day. This will help to reduce swelling and help with pain relief. 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water.
- Do not smoke for a minimum of 24 hours after surgery. The sucking motion loosens blood clots and can delay healing. Smoking also decreases blood supply and can allow germs and contaminants into your mouth.
- Avoid touching the area with your tongue and fingers
