Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Instructions
AFTER WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL
Follow these guidelines carefully to minimize pain and complications like infection and swelling.
IMMEDIATE POST-OPERATIVE CARE
- Keep the gauze pad in place over the surgical area for 30 minutes.
- Avoid touching or rinsing the wound to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Begin taking prescribed pain medication as the local anesthetic effect diminishes.
- Limit activities on the day of surgery and resume normal activities as comfort allows.
- Apply ice packs, as needed, to the sides of your face where surgery was performed.
BLEEDING
Expect minor bleeding or redness in saliva. For excessive bleeding, bite on a gauze pad or a moistened black tea bag for 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, call our office.
SWELLING
Swelling is normal and usually peaks 2-3 days after surgery. Use ice packs for the first 48 hours to minimize swelling.
PAIN
For moderate pain, Tylenol or ibuprofen can be taken as directed. For severe pain, follow the prescription guidelines. Consult our practice for dosage for individuals under 18.
DIET
Consume only liquids initially, avoiding the use of straws. Gradually move to soft foods, and maintain a high-calorie, high-protein diet. Stay hydrated.
CAUTION
ORAL HYGIENE
Begin rinsing with warm salty water on the day after surgery, especially after meals.
ANTIBIOTICS
NAUSEA AND VOMITING
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
- Numbness of the lip, chin, or tongue is usually temporary.
- A slight temperature rise is normal for 24-48 hours post-surgery.
- You may feel hard projections in your mouth; these usually smooth out on their own.
- Keep lips moist with ointments like Vaseline.
- Sore throats and swallowing pain are common and usually resolve in 2-3 days.
- Jaw stiffness may make it difficult to open your mouth for a few days but will resolve over time.
FINAL NOTES
Dissolvable sutures may be used and can come loose; this is not a cause for concern. Pain and swelling should decrease each day. If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, contact our office. Keep the surgical area clean, especially after meals. A dry socket is a potential complication; call the office if you experience symptoms. Exercise caution when resuming physical activities.