Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery: What to Expect Day by Day
One of the most common things people want to know after having their wisdom teeth removed is when they’ll feel better. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, full recovery can take six weeks. But don’t panic yet. Most people consider themselves to be back to normal within a week. Here are some things you can typically expect in the week ahead.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery: Day 1
While everyone’s experience will be different, in the first 24 hours it’s common to experience some soreness, swelling and mild bleeding. Plan on spending the remainder of the day at home relaxing.
For the first 24 hours, you should:
- Apply ice: Ice or a cold pack wrapped in a towel against your jaw can help reduce swelling.
- Avoid brushing or flossing: Your surgeon will give you take-home instructions. But typically, you shouldn’t brush or floss for the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Bite down on the gauze: Mild bleeding is quite normal. Biting down on the gauze we placed around the site can help with clotting. It’s also important to replace the gauze if it becomes soppy.
- Eat soft foods: Stick to very soft foods like yogurt and applesauce.
- Elevate your head: Keep your head above your heart to reduce bleeding.
- Rest: This is essential to the healing process.
- Take medications: Your surgeon will recommend an over the counter or prescription pain medicine to ease your discomfort. Please take it as instructed to ensure your optimal comfort—and that you get some rest.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery: Day 2
Hopefully, you’ve cleared your calendar and can rest today, too, as you will likely continue to feel drowsy and experience some soreness and swelling as the anesthesia wears off.
To help with recovery:
- Continue to apply ice: For some people, swelling peaks on day two.
- Eat semi-solid foods: Think oatmeal, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs.
- Gently rinse your mouth: Use salt water or antibacterial mouthwash.
By now, the bleeding should have stopped. If it hasn’t, contact your dentist.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery: Day 3
Recovery is different for everyone. But many report that day three is the most painful day of recovery. So, while some people can return to normal activities on day three; others may need more rest and continued TLC. Follow your dentist’s orders, listen to your body and contact your dentist if you’re experiencing significant pain, which can be a sign of dry socket.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery: Days 4-7
By now, you should have reduced pain and swelling—and more energy. Typically, it’s also OK to resume all normal activities. Continue to follow your take-home instructions and contact your dentist if you have any questions or if any symptoms worsen.
Experiencing Tooth Pain?
Tooth pain can be a sign that it’s time to have your wisdom teeth removed. Contact us today to schedule a consult so we can determine the root of the problem. If wisdom teeth removal is right for you, our gracious and caring team at Purcell Family Dental will guide you every step of the way from early X-rays through recovery.