Surviving Day 5 of Wisdom Teeth Removal: Tips and Tricks
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental surgery that many people go through. While this surgery can bring relief from pain and prevent future dental problems, the recovery process can be difficult. One of the hardest days during this process is day 5. You may experience severe pain, swelling, and difficulty eating. To help you face this day, we have compiled some tips and tricks to make your recovery process easier.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Staying hydrated is essential to promote healing and prevent dehydration. While you may feel like sipping on water, try to incorporate liquids rich in electrolytes such as Gatorade, Pedialyte, or coconut water. Electrolytes help to balance fluid in the body and prevent muscle cramps. Avoid drinking through straws as this can cause dry socket, a painful condition resulting from the dislodging of the blood clot. Drink slowly and gently, and avoid extremely cold or hot drinks to prevent sensitivity.
Stick to Soft Foods
On day 5, eating solid foods can be a nightmare. Instead of forcing yourself to eat solid foods, stick to soft foods, such as mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, soups, smoothies, or yogurt. Ensure that the food is at room temperature or cooled down, and avoid spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the swelling. Using a small spoon or a syringe to feed yourself can also help to avoid disturbing the clot and reduce pain.
Stay Ahead of Pain
The pain on day 5 can be unbearable and may make you feel miserable. However, being proactive can help you to stay ahead of the pain. Take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon. Applying ice packs on the affected area for 20 minutes at a time can also reduce the swelling and ease the pain. Always ensure that you wrap the ice in a towel to avoid ice burns.
Maintain Oral Hygiene
On day 5, you may experience bad breath, discomfort, and difficulty in brushing your teeth. However, oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing. Effortlessly rinse your mouth with warm salt water to eliminate any debris or food particles, which can cause infection. Continue to gently brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush or gauze to avoid disturbing the clot. Avoid using mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide as these can irritate the wound.
Rest is the Best Medicine
Taking adequate rest can play a significant role in the recovery process. Prioritize getting quality sleep and avoid vigorous activities, bending, or straining, which can increase your blood pressure and swelling. Elevate your head while sleeping with pillows to reduce swelling, and use a neck pillow for support. Take the day off from work, avoid driving, and allow yourself to relax.
Conclusion
Day 5 after wisdom teeth removal can be challenging, but with the right tips and tricks, you can overcome it. Hydrate, stick to soft foods, stay ahead of pain, maintain oral hygiene, and take rest. Remember that each person’s recovery process is different, and if you experience severe pain, fever, or uncontrolled bleeding, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. By following these tips, you will be on your way to full recovery.
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