Dos and Don’ts after Surgical Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure many people undergo in their late teens or early twenties. These third molars can cause problems such as pain, infection, and alignment issues. Surgical removal becomes necessary when these teeth impact other teeth or cause health issues. Knowing what to do and what to avoid can make a significant difference in healing. This blog will help you get a know-how of the the dos and don’ts after surgical wisdom teeth removal in Burlington, ON.
What to Expect Immediately After Surgery
Post the surgery, you will spend some time in the Burlington dentist’s office recovering before you go home. You may feel groggy from the anesthesia, and it’s normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. These symptoms are part of the healing process. Your dentist will provide gauze to help control the bleeding and instructions for managing pain.
Normal symptoms include:
- Swelling around the mouth and cheeks
- Mild to moderate pain
- Minor bleeding
- Bruising around the jaw
However, there are signs of complications you should watch for:
- Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure
- Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medications
- High fever
- Pus or foul taste in your mouth, indicating an infection
If you notice any of these, contact your Burlington dental clinic immediately.
Dos for a Smooth Recovery
Following these instructions can help ensure a quick and smooth recovery after your surgical wisdom teeth removal:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions: Your dentist in Burlington will give specific guidelines tailored to your case. Adhering to these instructions is critical.
- Use ice packs: Apply ice compress to your face for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
- Take prescribed medications: Take pain relievers and antibiotics as directed to control pain and prevent infection.
- Maintain a soft diet: Eat soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes. Slowly introduce more solid foods as you heal.
- Stay hydrated: Drink ample amounts of fluids, but avoid hot or carbonated drinks.
- Keep your head elevated: Use extra pillows to keep your head elevated while resting. This helps reduce swelling.
- Carefully rinse with salt water: After 24 hours, gently rinse or wash your mouth with warm salt water to keep the surgical area clean.
Don’ts to Avoid Complications
Avoiding certain activities and habits can prevent complications and promote healing:
- Avoid strenuous activities: Have some rest and avoid heavy lifting or exhausting exercise for a few days.
- Do not use straws or smoke: Suction from straws and smoking can dislodge or displace the blood clot and delay healing.
- Stay away from hard, crunchy, or spicy foods: These may irritate and hurt the surgical site.
- Avoid poking the surgical site: Refrain from touching the area with your fingers or tongue to stop infection.
- Refrain from vigorous mouth rinsing or spitting: These actions can also dislodge the blood clot necessary for healing.
- Do not ignore severe pain or unusual symptoms: Always consult your dentist if you experience anything out of the ordinary.
Managing Pain and Swelling
Effective pain management is critical to a comfortable recovery. Use the following strategies:
- Take prescribed pain relievers: Follow your dentist’s instructions on taking medications to manage pain effectively.
- Use ice packs: Apply them on and off for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling.
- Eat soft foods: Consuming soft foods minimizes discomfort while chewing.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking ample amounts of water helps keep you hydrated and promotes healing.
When to Contact Your Dentist
Knowing when to contact your dentist can prevent complications:
- Excessive bleeding: Call your Burlington dentist if bleeding continues despite applying pressure.
- Severe pain: Unrelieved pain can indicate a problem and needs professional attention.
- High fever: A fever can indicate infection.
- Pus or unusual discharge: This can indicate an infection that requires prompt treatment.
Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your healing and address any concerns.
Conclusion
Recovering from surgical wisdom teeth removal requires careful attention to your dentist’s instructions and awareness of what to do and avoid. Following these dos and don’ts can ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications. Remember, the key to a quick recovery is rest, proper care, and staying in touch with your dentist if any issues arise.
Ready for a Smooth Recovery? Schedule Your Follow-Up Appointment Today!
If you have recently undergone surgical wisdom teeth removal or need to schedule a consultation, don’t hesitate to contact Walkers Line Dental Centre. Our dental clinic is here to provide you with the best care possible. Book your follow-up appointment today to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. Contact us to schedule your appointment.