Home Care Instruction After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
First 3 Days
- Apply ice intermittently near surgery area for 24 hours
- Avoid hot foods
- Avoid physical exertions for 3 days
- Do not suck using straws for 3 days
- Use pain-killer:
- Ibuprofen: 1 tablet every 8 hours for the first 24-48 hours
- Do not disturb or touch the wound
General Instructions
Cleaning:
- Brush VERY GENTLY around the surgery site with a soft bristle toothbrush
- Rinse with warm salt water (1 teaspoon salt to 1 cup water); at least 5 times a day
- Especially after meals
Food choices:
- Soft food
- Chew using the un-operated side of the mouth
Avoid:
- Food too hot/cold
- Food with small seeds
- Sticky/chewy food
- Citrus fruits, juices, spicy food, alcoholic drinks
- Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist
DO NOT SMOKE until healing is complete
Normal VS Abnormal Symptoms
Normal
- Slight to moderate pain
- Stiffness of jaw muscles
- Sore throat, pain when swallowing for 2-3 days
- Slight fever
- Swelling (may appear the day after and peaks 2-3 days after)
- Bruising (apply moist heat if this appears)
Abnormal
- High Fever, pus
- Severe pain
- Persisting sore throat, and swallowing pains
Call our office if there’s persistent numbness, bleeding, or discomfort or any other concerns at 604-877-1712 or email DR. Xu at dr.yan@falsecreekpuredental.com
FAQ
1. Do I need prescription painkillers after Extraction?
For many people, using over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen as required is usually enough to handle any discomfort after having your wisdom teeth removed. Prescription painkillers aren’t usually needed for most folks.
2. Is it normal to have pain and swelling?
It’s totally normal to feel some pain and swelling after getting your wisdom teeth removed. The worst part usually happens around the second or third day after the extraction – that’s when things can feel the toughest. But hey, here’s the good news: as long as things are getting better bit by bit, you’re on the right track! By the time the second week rolls around, you’ll probably notice that most of the pain and swelling have vanished. So, don’t worry if things seem a little rough at first – just keep an eye on the progress, and you’ll be feeling better in no time!
3. Should I take days off after extraction?
On the second and third days following your tooth extraction, you might notice more swelling. If your work usually involves interacting with clients or being in the spotlight, this could be a great opportunity to give yourself a brief break and come back even stronger.
4. Is it normal to be still bleeding after a few days later?
Experiencing some bleeding a few days after the tooth extraction is not uncommon. Your body is still healing, and a bit of bleeding can be part of the process. However, if the bleeding seems excessive or doesn’t improve over time, it’s a good idea to reach out to your dentist for guidance and reassurance.
