Wisdom teeth are the last molars to develop and are an essential part of our dental structure. However, it’s not uncommon for these teeth to cause problems, leading to their extraction. If you’re preparing to have your wisdom teeth removed, you might be wondering about the recovery time.
In this article, we’ll discuss what to expect during the recovery period after wisdom teeth removal.
The First 24 Hours
After surgical extraction of your wisdom teeth, you’re likely to experience pain and discomfort, swelling, and slight to moderate bleeding. You may also notice a bad taste in your mouth. The anesthetic used during the surgery will take a few hours to wear off, after which the soreness will be more noticeable. It’s recommended to take painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce the soreness.
You should avoid spitting, rinsing or using a straw during the first 24-48 hours after the extraction as it can lead to a complication called dry socket. Also, it’s advised to use cold compresses to reduce swelling during this time.
Days 2-3
By the second or third day, the swelling should start to subside, and the pain should become more manageable. You can switch over to warmer compresses at this point to relieve any soreness that you may be experiencing. In addition, you can start eating soft and cold foods such as ice cream, pasta, and yogurt.
Days 4-7
By the fourth day, you should be able to eat solid foods without any discomfort. However, make sure to avoid chewing with the extraction site as it can lead to pain and soreness. Also, you may notice the development of black and blue bruising, which is a normal part of the healing process.
By the end of the first week, the pain should be much more manageable, and the swelling should be mostly subsided. Most people return to their daily routine by this time, but it’s still recommended to avoid using tobacco and drinking alcohol, which can delay the healing process.
Summary
In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal recovery times vary from person to person and depend on several factors such as age and the complexity of the extraction. However, by following the measures mentioned above, you can expect a comfortable recovery period that lasts between 7-14 days.
Maintain proper dental hygiene and follow your dentist’s instructions to ensure smoother healing after the surgery. By taking care of yourself, you’ll get back to normal quickly and enjoy a healthy and pain-free smile.
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