What Can I Expect After Wisdom Tooth Removal?

Between five and 10 million Americans undergo wisdom tooth removal each year. The procedure, which removes some or all of the molars at the very back of your mouth, is safe and typically well tolerated. However, it’s normal to wonder what recovery looks like. 

At Gulf Coast Periodontics & Implants, Dr. Caesar Sweidan and Dr. Laura Smith specialize in wisdom teeth removal. In this article, they explain what to expect during your recovery, from immediately after surgery through the following days and weeks.

Stage one: immediate post-procedure recovery

Before wisdom tooth removal, we administer a local anesthetic. We may also recommend oral sedation if you have dental anxiety or low pain tolerance. 

It takes several hours for the numbness to wear off, and if you receive sedation, you’ll need someone to pick you up. 

It’s normal to experience mild swelling and bleeding in the first few hours after the procedure. We place gauze in your empty tooth sockets, but you may need to replace it once you get home.

If you are uncomfortable after the procedure you can take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. We may also prescribe medication if you’re having more than one wisdom tooth removed.

Stage two: first few days of recovery

The day after your procedure, swelling may spread to your cheeks or jaw. Some people may also experience mild bruising and soreness. We recommend applying ice packs to your cheeks throughout the day to keep any swelling under control, but wrap them in a thin towel or cloth first to prevent freezer burn. 

Keep your head elevated to minimize any discomfort and reduce any bleeding, drink plenty of fluids, and eat only soft foods, such as: 

• Applesauce 
• Yogurt 
• Scrambled eggs 

Stage three: a week after procedure

Your mouth should feel back to normal about a week or two after surgery.   

During the days leading up to this milestone, avoid chewing food with the teeth at the back of your mouth to prevent it from getting trapped in your empty sockets and reduce complications, such as infection. 

Similarly, avoid drinking with a straw because it can cause blood clots in your tooth sockets to dislodge, exposing the nerves and bone underneath.

Tips to support healing

Now that you know what to expect during your recovery, here are some simple practices that can help support healing. We recommend:

• Avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol
• Limiting strenuous physical activity, although light exercise is fine
• Watching for signs of infection, such as fever, prolonged bleeding, or severe pain
• Taking any medication as prescribed

If pain, swelling, or other symptoms persist, contact us immediately. 

Ready to schedule your procedure?

If you’ve been told you need wisdom tooth removal, don’t put off the procedure any longer. The sooner you take action, the sooner you can begin recovery and support your overall oral health.

To kickstart the process, contact us today to make an appointment. Call our Gulfport, Mississippi, office at (228) 868-9615 or request an appointment on this website.