As someone who recently had their wisdom teeth removed, I can attest to the discomfort and pain that can follow for days afterward. Though the process itself may not be too painful, the aftermath can often be a different story. In this article, we’ll cover some common symptoms experienced by many after their wisdom teeth are removed, as well as some remedies that can help alleviate the discomfort.
Pain and Swelling
One of the most significant symptoms people encounter after wisdom teeth removal is pain and swelling. The amount of pain and duration differs depending on a range of factors including the age of the individual, the extraction method used, and the level of mobility of the teeth. Generally, the pain tends to peak within 24 to 48 hours after the surgery, although it may start to subside a few days later.
Fortunately, there many things one can do to manage this discomfort. One of the most effective remedies is icing the area for 15-20 minutes at a time, with at least a 20-minute break between each icing session. You should begin icing as soon as possible after the surgery and keep it up for several hours to reduce the swelling and numb the area, which will help to manage the pain.
Medications for Pain Relief
Another solution for pain management is to take over-the-counter (OTC) anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, before taking any medication, it’s essential to understand the required dosage level as failure to comply with recommended dosage instructions could have adverse impacts. Early medication use is recommended before oral swelling and pain becomes more acute.
Soft Diet
Immediately after undergoing this procedure, victims are advised to stay on a soft food diet for at least 24-48 hours. This is done to avoid any particles from the food getting trapped in the area of surgery, which can potentially cause irritation to the surgical area. The digestive system sometimes struggles to accommodate large amounts of food during this period, making it important to take small bites and eat slowly, ensuring a high level of hygiene to safeguard the wound. Cold drinks are best to numb the area, while avoiding hot or hard foodstuffs like crackers, nuts, or popcorn that can exacerbate the symptoms.
Rinsing with Saltwater
Lastly, to achieve a faster healing time, it is essential to maintain the wound clean. Many individuals use a solution of saltwater to rinse their mouths to speed recovery, which ideally eliminates the buildup of bacteria or food particles.
In conclusion, the removal of wisdom teeth can be manageable with the appropriate steps, remedies, and aftercare. These remedies, however, are not enough; it’s essential to get advice from a professional dentist who can examine and advise if one would need additional or different treatment. Use of appropriate medication, regular mouth rinsing with warm salt water, and taking appropriate care for the wound are vital steps that can help individuals recover from this surgery as fast as possible.
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