Wisdom tooth extraction is a relatively complex dental procedure. Many people worry about undergoing this process and wonder, “What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?” To answer this question, let’s explore the details with New Gate Dental below!
What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
One of the reasons people hesitate to undergo wisdom tooth extraction is due to uncertainty about what steps to take afterward. Here are some essential tips to follow post-extraction:
- Stay for Observation: After your wisdom tooth extraction, remain at the clinic for 30–60 minutes for monitoring, especially in cases involving difficult or complicated extractions.
- Bite Down on Gauze: Bite firmly on the gauze placed in your mouth for 45–60 minutes to stop bleeding and avoid excessive bleeding.
- Swallow Saliva Frequently: Continue swallowing saliva to help with blood clot formation.
- Apply Cold Compress: If you experience swelling, apply a cold compress to the affected area during the first 6 hours to reduce inflammation. Switch to warm compresses if swelling persists in the following days.
- Soft Diet: Eat soft, cool foods for the first 1-2 days. Gradually return to regular foods, but avoid overly hot or cold items.
- Rest: Take it easy for 1–2 days post-surgery, avoiding hard, chewy, or sticky foods.
- Follow-up Appointments: Schedule a follow-up for suture removal 7–10 days after the procedure (if non-dissolvable sutures were used).
- Take Prescribed Medications: Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding medications.
> Read More: Find Out What Medication to Take After Wisdom Tooth Extraction with Dr. New Gate Dental
Dietary Recommendations
- Chew on the Opposite Side: Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth can help alleviate discomfort.
- Cut Food into Small Pieces: This minimizes chewing effort and reduces pressure on the extraction site, promoting healing.
- Rinse After Meals: After eating, rinse your mouth thoroughly with a standard mouthwash or a 0.9% saline solution to keep the area clean.
- Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated not only aids the healing process but also helps flush out food particles, reducing the risk of infection. Be sure to drink warm, not hot or cold, water.
What Not to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
- Do not spit, rinse, or suck on the extraction site during the first day.
- Avoid using homemade saltwater rinses on the first day.
- Stay away from alcohol and smoking during the healing process, especially while taking medication.
- Refrain from eating hard, chewy, spicy, or raw fermented foods that might irritate the wound.
- Avoid intense physical activities like swimming, lifting heavy objects, or playing sports for about a week.
Contact Your Dentist Immediately if You Experience:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing after the procedure.
- Persistent, uncontrollable bleeding.
- Fever over 39°C.
- Severe pain that doesn’t subside with painkillers.
- Increased swelling after 2–3 days.
- Continuous bleeding hours after the extraction.
Common FAQs About What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Question 1: Can I drink coffee after wisdom tooth extraction?
Answer: While many people love their daily coffee, it’s best to avoid it for 5–7 days post-extraction. Caffeine can interfere with the healing process.
Question 2: Can I drink alcohol after wisdom tooth extraction?
Answer: Absolutely not. Alcohol consumption can delay wound healing and negatively impact your health.
Question 3: Can I eat rice after wisdom tooth extraction?
Answer: Stick to soft foods like porridge or soups for the first 2–3 days. You can resume eating rice after the fourth day if there’s no swelling or pain.
Conclusion: What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
We hope this article has clarified what you should do after a wisdom tooth extraction. If you have further questions or need advice, feel free to contact New Gate Dental. Our team combines expertise, technology, and dedicated care to ensure a safe and comfortable wisdom tooth extraction experience, helping you smile confidently again!
Contact Information:
- Branch: 04 Dang Tat Str., Tan Dinh Wd., District 1, HCMC
- Branch: 218 Tan Huong Str., Tan Quy Wd., Tan Phu Dist., HCMC
- Hotline: 085 522 9911
- Website: NewGateDental.com
- Fanpage: New Gate Dental
