If you’re one of the 25% of people who have had to get their wisdom teeth removed, you’re likely wondering what to expect from the healing process after wisdom teeth removal healing. The answer to this question really depends on the patient, since each person heals at a different rate and responds differently to medications, but the following information should give you an idea of what the recovery time after wisdom teeth removal will look like in general. Before we dive into that, let’s first take a look at why so many people are having their wisdom teeth removed in the first place…
The first few days
The first 24 hours after surgery are probably going to be a little rough. You’ll have a loose block of gauze placed in your mouth that will remain there for up to five days, so eating and drinking will be a bit more difficult than usual. The pain medication you’re prescribed will help with any discomfort, but it’s still not recommended that you drink any alcohol during recovery (or for about five days afterward). Some swelling and soreness is normal, so just make sure you’re taking care of yourself by sleeping as much as possible and keeping your hydration up. It’s also important to avoid doing anything active; so no touching your face or picking at bandages while they heal!
The first week
While some people bounce back from wisdom teeth removal in a matter of days, others might be down for weeks. The first few days following your extraction should be relatively comfortable, thanks to pain medications. Ice packs will also help keep swelling and bruising at bay. Immediately after surgery, you may not feel like eating solid foods (especially if a nerve was removed or if any stitches were used), but liquids are definitely okay. Reach for ice chips if you’re thirsty. Make sure to finish all medications as prescribed so that no infection develops. For pain management during recovery, make sure you follow instructions on taking your prescribed medication exactly as they’re written; over-the-counter painkillers may interfere with other medications and could prolong recovery time as well as increase risk of complications later on.
The first month
After you get your wisdom teeth removed, it’s going to be important for you to spend some time relaxing. Many patients report feeling tired and exhausted in the first few days after their surgery. It’s important that you give yourself plenty of rest over these next few days, so that your body can begin healing. You may also experience difficulty swallowing, which is why it’s essential that you eat only soft foods and avoid talking or drinking while your mouth is open. Try chewing ice chips instead. Don’t feel discouraged if you don’t want to eat right away; some people experience a bit of nausea or vomiting in those first few days as well.
When you can go back to sports
The general rule of thumb is that you can return to physical activity after a few days. As for more strenuous sports, you might want to wait about a week or two. When it comes down to it, there’s no hard and fast rule; healing time varies from person to person. If you’re in pain, though, don’t delay your visit with your dentist.
Do’s and Don’ts
Once you’ve had your wisdom teeth extracted, it is important to follow your dentist’s advice carefully. Your mouth will be sore, and there are certain things you shouldn’t do while recovering. For example, don’t chew on anything too hard—liquids are best for a few days following an extraction. You may also need antibiotics or pain medication; depending on how sensitive you are to pain, these medications can relieve discomfort and aid in healing significantly faster.
Keep track of your recovery
The recovery time after wisdom teeth removal depends on your oral health and medical history. It’s important to keep a record of how you’re feeling throughout the recovery process. Your dentist may ask for updates about your comfort level, any pain you’re having and other symptoms so that he or she can determine if any treatment adjustments are needed. Keeping track of your progress will help you recover faster and reduce risks of complications. Recovery times can vary significantly, depending on a number of factors, including