All You Need to Know About Recovering from 4 Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Recovering from wisdom teeth extraction can be both physically and mentally challenging. As an adult, the operation can be overwhelming, and it’s essential to know what to expect and how to take care of yourself during the recovery process. Here’s all you need to know about recovering from 4 wisdom teeth extraction.

First Things First: Recovery Timeline

Following the extraction procedure, the initial healing period is around one to two weeks. However, it may take up to one or two months for your mouth to fully recover. In the first 24 hours, your focus should be on managing the bleeding and reducing post-operative swelling. Icing the face and consuming soft, cold foods will help immensely during this time. From day 3 onwards, you should begin to swish and rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to boost oral hygiene and start the healing process.

What to Expect During Recovery

Recovering after the operation involves dealing with a range of post-operative symptoms. Besides the bleeding and inflammation, you may also face soreness, discomfort, and numbness in your jaw, chin, and lips. The first three days are typically the most challenging, but the discomfort should gradually subside, and you will begin to feel better. To manage your pain, your dentist will prescribe medications such as antibiotics, ibuprofen, or aspirin.

Diet and Nutrition

One of the critical things to keep in mind after wisdom teeth extraction is to maintain nutritious and balanced meals and avoid spicy, hard-to-chew, hot, or fizzy foods during recovery. Stick to softer options such as soup, smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal for two to five days post-surgery. Also, avoid alcohol and smoking cigarettes, as they can lead to slower healing and increase the likelihood of complications.

Oral Hygiene

Lastly, it is essential to keep your surgical site clean and maintain excellent oral hygiene to avoid infections. Swishing and rinsing your mouth after eating, brushing gently after the first 24 hours, and flossing carefully will help promote healing. Also, avoid harsh spitting, using a straw, or excessive rinsing to prevent the dislodging of the clot and promote quicker healing.

In Conclusion

Recovering from wisdom teeth extraction requires patience, care, and time. While it may seem daunting at first, knowing what to expect and preparing yourself for the journey ahead can help make the process easier. Ensure that you follow your dentist’s instructions, pay attention to your body’s signals, and take it easy to ensure a speedy and optimal recovery.