Post-operative instructions will be provided after your surgery. This information will help ensure a swift and successful recovery, with helpful tips designed to reduce the risk of complications. As you will see below, our team has included important information about what you can expect to experience in the hours, days, and weeks following your procedure. If you develop any issues or have questions about the post-recovery process, contact Dr. Williams.
What to Expect
Below are some of the common side effects you can expect after tooth extraction or wisdom tooth removal:
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Some minor bleeding or oozing may be likely for 12-24 hours.
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It is normal to experience swelling following your procedure. Peak swelling is usually on days 2 and 3, but it will start to dissipate by day 5 after your surgery.
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Discomfort in the few hours after your procedure is normal, especially as the anesthesia and sedation wear off. Although it may continue for the next 2-3 days, it will start to disappear soon after.
Immediate Post-Surgery Instructions
Do not be alarmed if you notice any of the following symptoms, and be sure to follow these instructions to maintain a healthy recovery:
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When managing the bleeding, apply pressure by biting down on clean gauze that is placed over the extraction site(s) for 30 minutes. You can repeat this process as needed, but be sure to keep your head elevated and get plenty of rest. Avoid excessive sucking or spitting, and do not play any musical instruments that require you to use your mouth. Do not be alarmed if you notice saliva discoloration or oozing. You can continue to place clean gauze over the surgical sites and bite down until the bleeding stops.
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Use a cold compress for 20 minutes on and off to reduce swelling. However, you should only plan to use these on the day of your surgery.
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Do not smoke or use any tobacco products for at least 2 weeks.
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It is normal to experience some post-procedural discomfort. Mild-to-moderate pain is expected but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Ibuprofen or Aleve. If you experience severe pain, take any prescribed medications as instructed. Do not rush the process, as it can take 30-60 minutes for the medicine to take full effect. Exercise caution when taking new medications.
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You will need to stick to a liquid diet for the first few days after your procedure. Soup, smoothies, ice cream, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and pudding are safe options, as well as protein shakes and macaroni and cheese.
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Avoid any physical activity for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. You are encouraged to rest as much as possible during this time. Also, do not drive or operate any heavy machinery for at least 24 hours.
The Days After Surgery
Keeping your mouth clean and healthy is essential. You will also need to manage any discomfort you experience. These instructions can help:
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Be mindful when brushing your teeth to avoid irritating the surgical site(s).
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Rinse your mouth with a prescription rinse 24 hours after your procedure. Rinse 3 times daily for 7 days before starting the irrigation process.
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If you are prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed until all of the medication is taken.
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Apply moist, warm heat to your face to reduce swelling if needed. You can use a warm, wet washcloth or heating pad.
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Any sutures that may be used will dissolve on their own, so no additional appointment for their removal is required.
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A dry socket remains the most common post-procedural concern, as it is a delayed healing response that can occur 2-4 days after surgery. Increasing pain that radiates up to the ear is associated with a dry socket. In most cases, increasing your pain medication can reduce symptoms; however, if this does not work, call Dr. Williams
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Make sure to return to your dentist’s office after 5-7 days to receive irrigation instructions. This is very important!
What Are Dry Sockets?
A dry socket is an uncomfortable side effect that can occur after an extraction. It can occur anywhere from 24-72 hours after a procedure and is usually associated with throbbing pain near the socket that can radiate to the ear or jaw. To reduce the discomfort you experience, you will need to take prescription pain medication. If this is sufficient, you will not require additional care from Dr. Williams. However, if the pain persists, he will determine the best course of treatment for the dry socket, which usually requires a medicated dressing.
Preventing Dry Sockets
To avoid a dry socket after wisdom tooth extraction, you will need to:
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Stick to a liquid or mushy diet in the few weeks following your procedure.
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Avoid physical activity for at least one week after surgery.
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Follow the post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Williams.
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Keep up with your oral hygiene routine, but avoid vigorous brushing and rinsing.
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Do not drink alcoholic beverages and avoid sipping from straws.
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Do not smoke or use any tobacco products until you are properly healed.
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Return for your irrigation appointment with your dentist 5-7 days after surgery.
When to Contact the Doctor
Do not wait to seek professional help if you notice any of the following:
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Excessive bleeding cannot be controlled with clean gauze at home.
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Your discomfort persists and does not let up.
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Swelling is increasing after 60 hours post-surgery.
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You are having an allergic reaction to the medication, which can cause a rash or itching.
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If you lose consciousness, someone should call 911 right away.
