Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare
in Stroudsburg & Bethlehem, PA

What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?

Wisdom teeth removal refers to the surgical procedure used to extract one or more third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. These are the last set of molars located at the back of the mouth and typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood (usually between the ages of 17 and 25).

Wisdom teeth are often removed for various reasons, including:

• Impaction
• Overcrowding
• Infections or gum disease
• Decay
• Cysts

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Impacted wisdom teeth are either partially or fully trapped in the gums or jawbone. When there isn’t enough space for them to grow properly, they can cause various dental issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and overcrowding of the teeth.

An impacted wisdom tooth may result in harm to the adjacent tooth, the accumulation of plaque and bacteria, and the formation of cavities, potentially leading to painful infections.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Timeline

Recovery from wisdom teeth removal typically takes between 1 and 2 weeks, with varying levels of pain, swelling, and bruising throughout the recovery process.

Day of Extraction and the First 24 Hours

During the first 24 hours after surgery, you may experience bleeding, pain, and swelling. To manage these symptoms, you can use pain relief medication and ice packs. Here’s what you can expect:

• Immediate Hours After Surgery: You may experience numbness in your mouth due to local anesthesia. This will wear off after a few hours.
• Bleeding: Some bleeding or oozing is normal. It’s usually recommended to keep gauze over the extraction site and bite down to help stop the bleeding.
• Pain: Begin taking painkillers as recommended or prescribed by your oral surgeon or oral surgeon.
• Swelling: You may notice some swelling around the jawline or cheeks. Applying a cold pack can help reduce this.
• Diet: Stick to soft foods and liquids. Avoid using straws as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.

Also, avoiding dislodgement of the blood clots forming in the mouth is crucial as they’re fundamental to the healing process. In the first 24 hours, you should leave your mouth undisturbed and gently rinse with antiseptic mouth rinse to promote healing.

Days 2 and 3

You’ll likely experience your symptoms at their height during this period:

• Swelling: This may peak around the 2nd or 3rd day and then begin to decrease. Continue using a cold pack if needed.
• Pain: You may still need painkillers, but the pain should lessen.
• Diet: Continue with soft foods, and avoid spicy foods or anything that might irritate the wound.

Days 4-7

Expect the following 4 to 7 days after surgery:

• Swelling: A significant reduction in swelling should be evident.
• Pain: Any pain should be more manageable and might be limited to discomfort.
• Oral Care: Gentle rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean. Avoid vigorous rinsing.
• Stitches: If non-dissolvable stitches were used, they might be removed around this time.

Week 2

During week 2:

• Healing: Most of the immediate surgical wounds should be healing or healed.
• Diet: You can gradually return to your normal diet, but be cautious with hard or crunchy foods.
• Oral Hygiene: Resume your regular oral care routine but continue to be gentle around the extraction site.

Weeks 3 and 4

While the surface wounds are generally healed, the deeper tissue and bone can take a few months to fully heal. However, by this point, you should be able to resume all normal activities without any discomfort.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Ice Packs and Pain Relief

Ice packs can be a game-changer during the recovery process. They help with:

• Diminishing inflammation
• Alleviating pain
• Facilitating recovery
• Lessening the need for medication
• Assisting with muscle recovery

When using ice packs, wrap them in a towel or cloth to prevent skin irritation.

Pain relief medications, such as over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can help manage pain during recovery. If necessary, prescription medications may be prescribed by a doctor. Always follow the instructions rigorously and don’t exceed the recommended dosage.

Diet and Nutrition

Eating soft, nutritious foods and avoiding straws can help protect the surgical site and promote a faster recovery. Some excellent choices for nourishing your body during recovery include:

• Mashed bananas
• Yogurt
• Soft scrambled eggs
• Tomato soup
• Pumpkin soup
• Avocado
• Fruit smoothies
• Porridge

As your recovery progresses, gradually introduce more solid foods, but be mindful to chew with other teeth and gently rinse your mouth to prevent any issues. 

Potential Complications

Despite wisdom teeth removal being a common procedure, potential complications like dry sockets, nerve damage, and infection can surface. Being conscious of these risks and understanding when to seek medical help is crucial. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or swelling that worsens after four days, don’t hesitate to inform your surgeon, as this could indicate an infection.

Returning to Work, School, and Daily Activities

A gradual return to work, school, and everyday activities is recommended for a smooth recovery and to minimize the risk of complications. It’s generally recommended to take at least 2 to 3 days off work or school following wisdom teeth removal. For those in physically demanding jobs, more time may be needed to ensure a successful recovery.

Remember, your health and well-being should always come first.

Gradually resuming activities facilitates a smooth recovery and reduces the risk of complications. Be patient with yourself and listen to your body as you ease into your daily routine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our Oral Surgeons Will Help Ensure a Seamless Recovery

Ensure a smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal by following post-care instructions! By following the advice from our Lehigh Valley team, you’ll be well on your way to a speedy recovery after wisdom teeth removal. 

To schedule your appointment, call our Bethlehem and Stroudsburg, PA, office at 484-821-1357. We welcome patients from Allentown, Fullerton, and Middletown.