If you have had your wisdom teeth extracted in our office, it is important to know what to expect after the procedure. Removable stiches are used, and these will dissolve after a week after the procedure. Gauze is also provided to help soak up any fluids after the procedure. We will provide our patients with guidelines, and discuss how to care for your mouth after your wisdom teeth have been extracted. It is important to pay attention to any signs of infection, pain or swelling that does not go away.
Recommendations for care after wisdom tooth removal:
- Keep the gauze in place after the procedure for a half hour to an hour, to ensure any fluid is soaked up.
- Stiches are used around the area and will dissolve usually after one week post-surgery.
- Avoid any harsh rinsing or touching around the area.
- Take any prescribed pain medications or antibiotics after the procedure as soon as you feel any discomfort.
- Restrict any activities and take it easy after the procedure. Normal activity can resume after you feel comfortable.
- Ice may be used on the side of the mouth where the procedure took place. Some swelling is normal, but this will subside as the area heals.
- You may notice bleeding after the surgery, but this can be controlled by rinsing the mouth gently or using gauze pads to soak up any fluid or blood.
- Avoid any exercise after the procedure so the area can begin to heal.
- Swelling is common after the procedure, and you may even have mild bruising a few days after. This is normal and can be treated by icing the area.
- Follow a liquid diet or eat very soft foods, and avoid using a straw. Using a straw can cause the blood clot around the area to dislodge.
- Stay hydrated after the procedure. This will help you feel the best while recovering.
- Use good oral hygiene by brushing and rinsing gently. Rinsing with salt water can be done each day to help the healing process.
- You may have nausea or vomiting from the anesthesia, and this is a common side effect. This nausea should subside after a few hours.
- Patients may experience a sore throat or stiffness feeling. This is normal after the procedure, and should go away.
Our team will guide our patients with any questions or concerns they have during the healing process. We will go over all of the above recommendations for care at home after the procedure. If you experience any fever, sudden numbness, or pain that will not go away please call our office, and we can take appropriate action to help you.
Overall the wisdom tooth extraction process is simple, and can be done in our office within approximately 45 minutes. If you are interested in finding out more about our wisdom tooth extraction services, please call or email Fraser Family today to schedule your appointment.