Post-Op Instructions After Wisdom Teeth Removal
After having your wisdom teeth removed, following the right post-surgery instructions is key to a smooth and speedy recovery. We’ve compiled important steps and tips to help guide you through the process.
What to Do Immediately After Surgery
After your surgery, take care to follow these steps:
- Keep the gauze pad over the surgical area for 30-45 minutes to help control bleeding. If needed, replace it with a fresh one.
- Avoid rinsing your mouth or touching the wound area, as this can dislodge the blood clot that’s forming.
- Take your prescribed pain medication within an hour of surgery so that it starts working before the anesthesia wears off.
- Limit physical activity for the first day. Resume normal activities when you feel comfortable.
- Apply ice packs to the sides of your face where surgery occurred to reduce swelling.
Other Aftercare Instructions
Diet
In the initial days after surgery, stick to liquids and avoid using straws, as sucking can disturb the healing area. Soft foods are ideal, just chew away from the surgical sites.
A high-protein, high-calorie diet will help speed up healing, so aim to eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids—at least 5-6 glasses of water each day.
Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and physical activity for a few days to support your recovery.
Oral Care
Start rinsing your mouth with warm salt water the day after surgery, especially after meals. Be gentle when brushing your teeth around the surgical sites to avoid irritating them.
Antibiotics
If prescribed antibiotics, be sure to take them as directed and finish the full course, even if you start feeling better. If you notice a rash or any unusual reactions, stop the medication and contact us for advice.
Complications and How to Handle Them
Bleeding
Some bleeding or oozing is normal after surgery. If it’s more than just a small amount, gently rinse your mouth to remove any old clots, then place a gauze pad over the area and bite down for 30-45 minutes. Repeat if needed.
A moistened tea bag can also help form a clot, thanks to its tannic acid. Keep your head elevated and avoid physical exertion. If bleeding doesn’t stop, reach out for assistance.
Swelling
Swelling is a typical response to surgery and can be expected around your mouth, cheeks, and jaw. It usually peaks within 48 hours and then begins to subside.
To reduce swelling, apply ice packs for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, during the first 36 hours. After that, moist heat can help. Swelling and jaw stiffness are temporary, but if they persist or become severe, contact us for advice.
Discoloration
Bruising of the skin can develop 2-3 days after surgery in shades of black, blue, green, or yellow as the blood under your skin heals. Applying moist heat to the area can speed up the healing process.
Pain
You’ll likely experience some pain following surgery. For mild discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen can help. For more severe pain, take your prescribed pain medication as directed. If pain worsens or persists, let us know so we can help.
Nausea and Vomiting
If you experience nausea or vomiting after surgery, avoid taking anything by mouth for an hour. After an hour, sip ginger ale or regular cola slowly over a 15-minute period.
Once the nausea stops, you can start eating soft foods and taking your prescribed medication again.
Other Complications
- Numbness: Temporary numbness in the lip, chin, or tongue is common after surgery. Be careful not to bite these areas, as you may not feel them.
- Fever: A slight fever is not uncommon. If your temperature remains high, let us know. Tylenol or ibuprofen can help lower the fever.
- Dizziness: You might feel lightheaded when standing up after surgery. To avoid this, sit up for a minute before getting up.
- Hard Projections: Occasionally, you might feel small projections in your mouth. These are often the edges of the bone that once supported the tooth. They usually smooth out over time.
- Dry Mouth: If the corners of your mouth crack or dry out, applying lip ointment can help.
Have Questions?
If you notice anything unusual or have questions about your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to assist you and provide the guidance you need to heal!
