Healing and recovery following wisdom tooth extraction varies from one person to another and can be influenced by a combination of factors such as your age, lifestyle, and general state of health. Below is a quick guide to help you recover and heal quickly following wisdom tooth removal.
The First 24 Hours Following Extraction
- Expect the extraction site to bleed for the first 24 hours. A tiny amount of blood may look like a lot as it gets mixed with your saliva. You will most likely be provided with sterile gauze pads to bite on as this will apply pressure to the socket and reduce bleeding.
- Consume a soft food diet. Avoid extremely hot or cold drinks and take tiny sips when drinking.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol intake.
- Elevate your head while lying down.
- Apply ice packs on your face for 15 minutes in 15-minute intervals. This will help reduce swelling.
- Do not rinse your mouth as this can dislodge the blood clot that has already formed on the extraction site.
- Take it easy. Do not exert yourself too much and avoid strenuous exercises.
After the First 24 Hours Following Extraction
- Continue your soft food diet until the extraction site has completely healed.
- Rinse your mouth gently with saline rinses (half a teaspoon of salt mixed with a cup of water).
- If stitches are placed, you may have to visit your dentist for them to be removed. Dissolvable stitches will disappear in a week or two.
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