Knowing what to expect following wisdom teeth removal can help ensure a smoother, faster recovery. When you come in for your consultations Dr. Jelic will explain the procedure and what to expect from the recovery process.

After wisdom teeth removal it’s critical to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, which are designed to minimize discomfort and risk of complications. Many factors will determine your total healing time including your age at the time of extraction, your overall health, severity of the wisdom teeth impaction the surgical technique used, and your commitment to follow home care instruction after the procedure.

Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal

1-2 days after Wisdom Teeth Removal:

There will be some minor bleeding around the extraction sites. You may develop some slight bruising along the outside of mouth and neck.  Inflammation around the cheeks and mouth are the body’s natural reaction to surgery. Expect moderate swelling on the day following surgery. Place ice packs on either side of your cheeks to reduce swelling severity and duration.

Plan to spend your first two days at home, either resting on the sofa or in bed. It’s important to limit physical activity and allow your body to heal. Take care not to irritate the surgical area. Do not rinse vigorously, spit, or use a drinking straw. Try and increase your fluid intake and stick to soft, liquid foods that are high in protein.

3-4 Days After Wisdom Teeth Removal:

In the 3-4 days following wisdom teeth removal you can expect swelling to be at its peak. The pain will begin to subside, giving way to general soreness. Don’t be alarmed if it’s difficult to open your mouth completely. Follow your surgeon’s directions and rinse gently with a mouthwash or warm salt water. When brushing your teeth, take care not to disturb the surgical sites, which will be starting to produce collagen – a precursor to new gum tissue. Mild to moderate swelling and bruising may still be present. Avoid strenuous exercise, lifting, or bending and keep a steady intake of nourishing foods such as yogurt, soup, apple sauce, cottage cheese and protein shakes.

Days 5-7 after Wisdom Teeth Removal:

By now, most of the swelling, discoloration and soreness should be minimal. If you were given antibiotics to prevent infection, be sure to finish the entire 7-day course. Most patients are feeling ready to resume normal activities – and exercise– by this time, and after a full week of recovery are ready to transition back to a heartier diet. The sutures will dissolve with time, and you may notice a small piece come out when you rinse. If you develop a fever, or notice continued bleeding, oozing or signs of pus, call your oral surgeon right away.

Tips to speed up post wisdom teeth healing

Every patient is unique, and no two people recover the same after having wisdom teeth pulled. Some will be back to school or work in a few days, while others may stay swollen and sore for weeks. You can help speed up the healing process by following these steps:

• Allow at least 3 days of solid rest
• Apply ice packs over the cheeks on the first day (20-minute intervals)
• Keep your head elevated with an extra pillow
• Stay hydrated; don’t allow your mouth to dry out
• Avoid alcohol, smoking and tobacco products
• Avoid playing horn instruments for 1 week
• Take medications as directed
• Do warm salt water rinses several times daily
• Stick to a liquid and soft-food diet for 3-5 days
• Avoid any activity that can dislodge blood clots
• Steer clear of hot foods, nuts and seeds
• Gently massage and stretch jaw muscles after day 3

Post wisdom teeth removal

Wisdom tooth removal, like any type of surgery, comes with some risk of complications, including post-op infection, dry socket (when the newly formed blood clot is dislodged from the extraction site), sinus communication and nerve damage. Most of these unexpected results are rare and can be avoided by following our detailed post-op instructions, which will be thoroughly explained during your office visit.

If you have additional questions about wisdom teeth removal recovery, please call our office today at 919-419-9222 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jelic.

Additional Resources on Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery:

1. Colgate, What Is The Recovery Time After Wisdom Teeth Removal? https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/conditions/wisdom-teeth/what-is-the-recovery-time-after-wisdom-teeth-removal-0913
2. Healthline, How Long Does It Take to Recover from Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery? https://www.healthline.com/health/wisdom-teeth-recovery
3. National Health Service, Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/wisdom-tooth-removal/recovery/