Wisdom Tooth Recovery

Immediate Post-Operative Care

• Rest and Recovery: Ensure you rest adequately with your head elevated to reduce swelling. Avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours to prevent bleeding and aid in clot formation.
• Pain Management: Use the prescribed pain medications as directed by Dr. Harris. It’s best to start taking them before the local anesthetic wears off completely.
• Swelling and Ice Packs: Swelling is normal after surgery. Apply ice packs to the cheek area in 20-minute intervals for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling.

Diet and Oral Hygiene

• Soft Foods: After surgery, enjoy a variety of soft foods like scrambled eggs, pasta, pancakes, mashed potatoes, and soft meats. Ice cream is fine but avoid light soups, broths, and jello that may cause nausea if taking pain medications.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but avoid using a straw as the suction can dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site.
• Gentle Oral Care: Resume brushing your teeth the day after surgery, but be gentle around the surgical sites. Rinse with salt water after meals and before bed to keep the area clean.

Avoiding Complications

• Dry Socket Prevention: Avoid smoking, spitting, or sucking actions to prevent dry socket, a condition where the blood clot is dislodged from the extraction site.
• Signs of Infection: Watch for signs of infection, including excessive swelling, persistent pain, fever, or unusual discharge from the extraction site. Contact Dr. Harris immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Follow-Up and Support

• Scheduled Check-Ups: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr. Harris to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
• Reach Out for Support: If you have questions or need assistance during your recovery, don’t hesitate to contact Anthem Oral Surgery & Implant Center. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.