June 13, 2023
A wisdom tooth is last to come in our mouth and failed to erupt properly due to lack of space, and sometimes, wisdom teeth that have become impacted or haven't fully broken through the surface of the gum causing gum disease, pain, and infection to its neighboring tooth. So, most dentists recommend extraction to avoid these complications. Removal of wisdom teeth is the most common surgical procedure done by dentists. The removal of impacted teeth is a serious surgical procedure. Post-operative care is critical. Unnecessary pain and the complications of infection and swelling can be minimized if the instructions are followed carefully.
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Steps To Be Taken Immediately After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
- Remove surgical pad 30 min after surgery
- Avoid touching the wound area
- Eat ice cream without containing nuts or any hard thing inside
- Prevent yourself from spitting and vigorous rinsing
- Take a pain medication pill, if you feel pain is initiating
What to expect and home care
Bleeding at the extraction site
A small amount of blood is normal in saliva, and it should be stopped after removal of gauze within 2-3 hr. If bleeding continues, bite on a moist teabag. The tannic acid in the teabag promotes blood clots by squeezing blood vessels.
Gum and cheek swelling
You will feel gum swelling after the next day of your surgery; swelling will reach its peak within the next 2-3 days and then start decreasing. To decrease this period of massage with cold packs on the cheek area surrounding the extraction area and after 48 hours of your surgery, massage it with a hot pack. Rinse with saline water to decrease gum swelling around the extraction site
Pain & medication
You should know that your pain should decrease with every passing day. Usually, the pain will increase if a wound is not healing or due to gum disease.
Take prescribed medication such as painkillers and antibiotics after surgery. A dentist usually prescribed antibiotics if there is an infection underneath the wisdom tooth or to mitigate the chances of an infection forming.
Diet
Your intake should be of soft food and drinks without using a straw. Straw create pressure in your oral cavity, and this will increase the chances of blood clot dislodge
Try to prevent yourself from opening a wide mouth, such as during yawning. This prevents excessive force on the extraction site.
Avoid smoking
Smoking prevents or delayed wound healing and is a major cause of gum disease. It is the leading cause of dry socket after wisdom tooth extraction.
Complications
Dry socket
Where a blood clot fails to develop in the tooth socket, or if the blood clot becomes dislodged.
Nerve injury
This can cause temporary or permanent problems, such as tingling or numbness.
Infection
Signs include a high temperature, yellow or white discharge from the extraction site, and persistent pain and swelling.
Bleeding
See your dentist if you have signs of infection after having your wisdom teeth removed or if you're bleeding heavily from the extraction site.
Other Consideration
Numb lip, tongue, and cheek are expected immediately after your surgery, but consult your dentist if it lasts longer. Sore throats and pain when swallowing are not uncommon. Since muscles are swollen, the ordinary act of swallowing can become painful. This pain will usually subside in 2-3 days.
If you are interested in having your wisdom teeth removed or have any other questions regarding this routine dental procedure, please contact Dr. Young and our expert dental team at Carefree Dentistry! We are always here to help you navigate the best options for your oral health.