Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure that many people go through. While the decision to undergo wisdom tooth extraction is usually a well-informed one, there is often confusion about what patients can expect during recovery.
To help you get through this often uncomfortable time, we’ve put together a list of the dos and don’ts of wisdom tooth removal recovery.
Do: Follow your dentist’s instructions
Your dentist will give you specific instructions to guide your recovery process. Be sure to follow all of them to the letter, as they are designed to help you heal and avoid complications. This may include avoiding certain types of food or drink or following a specific oral hygiene routine.
Don’t: Smoke or use tobacco products
Tobacco products can significantly impede the healing process and increase your chances of developing an infection. If you regularly smoke or use other tobacco products, it’s important to stay away from them for at least the first several days after your surgery.
Do: Practise good oral hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is crucial to your recovery. Use a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse your mouth several times a day, and brush your teeth very gently near the extraction site. Avoid using a toothbrush directly on the extraction site itself for the first few days.
Don’t: Eat hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
Foods that are hard, crunchy, or spicy can cause irritation, pain, or even damage to the extraction site. Stick to soft foods for the first few days after the procedure, such as soup, pasta, scrambled eggs, or mashed potatoes.
Do: Rest and take it easy
Your body needs time to recover after wisdom tooth extraction. Get lots of rest and avoid any strenuous activities for at least the first few days following your surgery. It’s also a good idea to avoid bending or lifting anything heavy for the first week.
Don’t: Drink through a straw
Drinking through a straw forces air and pressure into the mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot that forms around the extraction site. This can cause a painful condition known as dry socket, which can delay healing and may even require additional treatment.
In conclusion, the dos and don’ts of wisdom tooth removal recovery are simple, yet crucial to a successful healing process. Follow your dentist’s instructions, avoid smoking and using tobacco products, practise good oral hygiene, stick to soft foods, rest your body, and avoid using a straw. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a speedy, comfortable recovery.
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