9 Tips for a Smooth Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal in Miami
Wisdom teeth are your last set of molars, which usually emerge during your late teenage years.1 Removing these teeth can prevent overcrowded teeth, possible tooth pain, infection, and other oral health problems down the line. 2 Dentists in Miami will be very familiar with wisdom teeth removal, as approximately 5 million Americans have their wisdom teeth extracted every year.3 Read on for helpful aftercare tips that can help you with a smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal.
Replace gauze
At the end of your wisdom teeth removal treatment, your dentist will place a small piece of gauze over the extraction site to control any bleeding.4 You can bite down on this gauze to apply pressure and change it out regularly at intervals recommended by your dentist.
Get enough rest
For 48 hours after your extraction, you should take it easy and rest.5 You’ll likely experience some swelling and soreness, so request time off work if you’re getting the procedure done mid-week. Ensure you have extra pillows handy, as you should keep your head elevated above your heart while you rest.6
Use an ice pack
Have ice packs ready to go, so you can start using them when you return home after the removal procedure. Ice can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and discomfort.7 Wrap the ice pack in a clean towel and place it on your face for up to 20 minutes at a time.
Take your medication
To help manage your pain, your dentist will recommend over-the-counter medications and may prescribe additional medications depending on your individual needs. Be sure to follow any medications as directed, and if you’re experiencing more discomfort than expected, call your dentist so they can advise you.
Rinse with salt water
After 24 hours, you can help your socket heal by rinsing your mouth with salt water.8 Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water until it dissolves, then gently swish the mixture around your mouth and spit it out. You can do this twice per day, as it helps to clean the area and reduce the risk of complications.9
Eat soft foods
Stock up on soft foods, such as yogurt, cottage cheese, and mashed potatoes, ahead of your wisdom teeth removal.10 Avoid chewy or hard foods during this time, as well as foods with small particles like seeds that can get stuck in your socket. If you have a food processor at home, you can also blend your food to make it easier to eat while you’re recovering.11
Stay hydrated
In addition to eating nutritious food, you need to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated after your extraction. Water is the best choice, as drinking fruit juice, soft drinks, or hot drinks like coffee or tea can irritate the area that’s healing. Also, avoid using a straw to drink, as this creates a suction effect that disturbs the extraction site.12
Don’t smoke or vape
Smoking is widely known to have negative impacts on your oral health. However, after a tooth extraction, smoking can triple the risk of a complication like dry socket.13 It can also delay healing and make you more susceptible to infection.14 Experts recommend avoiding smoking or vaping completely for at least the first three days following the procedure. Nicotine patches are an alternative, as at least they don’t allow smoke and heat to enter your mouth, but as nicotine limits blood flow, it restricts what your body needs for the area to heal successfully.
Keep brushing
Although you’ll need to be careful to avoid the extraction site until it's healed, you should continue with your oral hygiene routine during recovery. This means brushing your teeth twice per day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, as well as flossing your teeth at least once.15 Having good oral hygiene will reduce your risk of infection, as well as minimize the risk of other oral health issues.
The bottom line
Wisdom teeth removal is a routine procedure that protects your long-term oral health. By adhering to the guidance and aftercare instructions from your dentist, recovery is typically a smooth process. If you’re searching for a trusted “dentist near me” online, choose a provider who can partner with you through the process, ease your concerns, and provide personalized recommendations.