Having your wisdom teeth removed is a routine procedure that is often overlooked as crucial. But the recovery period is so important; it largely determines how quickly and comfortably you can heal. Whether you are preparing for wisdom teeth extractions in Oakville or have just had one performed, knowing how to properly care for yourself afterwards can decrease complications and help you return to your routine sooner.
Why is Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Removal Important?
The extraction site is new, sensitive tissue and needs time to heal perfectly. Proper aftercare can help:
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Reduce the chances of infection
- Prevent complications, such as dry socket
- Reduce healing time
If your dentist has suggested you need oral surgery in Oakville, be sure to follow all of their recommendations closely so you can have a successful recovery.
What Should You Do Right After the Procedure?
You will likely receive aftercare instructions from your dentist near you. Below are the most important initial steps:
- Rest. Just rest for the first full 24 hours.
- Bite on gauze to stop the bleeding and form a clot.
- Ice packs. You can ice your cheek on and off for 15-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling.
- Medications. Be sure to take your pain medications or antibiotics exactly as prescribed.
What are the Dos and Don’ts After Having a Tooth Extracted?
Maintaining the correct habits will set you on an easier and safer path toward healing:
Do:
- Elevate your head while resting.
- Leverage soft, easy-to-chew foods, including yogurt, mashed potatoes or smoothies.
- Rinse with warm salt water (only) after 24 hours.
- Drink plenty of water.
Don’ts:
- Use a straw for 1 week (straws can dislodge clots)
- Smoking and vaping will hamper your healing progress.
- Eating any hard, crunchy, and spicy foods too soon.
- Poking at the extraction site with your tongue or fingers.
These dos and don’ts after wisdom tooth extraction can go a long way to help you have an average recovery or avoid complications.
How Long Does Recovery Usually Take?
Most people feel quite well within a week, but full recovery can take a couple of extra weeks. Here’s a general recovery timeline:
| Time Frame | What to Expect |
| First 24 hours | Mild bleeding, swelling, and soreness |
| Days 2–3 | Swelling peaks, and pain is manageable with medication |
| Days 4–7 | Swelling reduces, and eating becomes easier |
| Weeks 2–3 | The extraction site starts closing and feeling normal |
Remember, if you have any unusual pain, swelling or fever, check in with a dentist in Oakville right away.
What Foods Are Best After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
What you eat can help you heal faster and hopefully be more comfortable. You have to choose foods that are soft, easy to chew, and nutritious:
- Mashed potatoes
- Applesauce
- Scrambled eggs
- Yogurt
- Broths and soups (not too hot)
- Smoothies (without seeds)
Avoid sticky, crunchy or spicy foods until your dentist advises it is safe.
How Can You Keep the Extraction Site Clean?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important, but it needs to be gentle on the recovering area:
- Wait at least 24 hours before rinsing your mouth.
- Use a lukewarm salt water mixture to rinse 2–3 times per day or after meals.
- Brush your other teeth normally, but do not brush the site of the extraction.
Also, avoid mouthwashes with alcohol because they may aggravate the wound.
When should you let your dentist know?
While some discomfort is normal, you should seek dental advice if you experience:
- Pain that is persistent or worsening after a few days.
- Bleeding that is heavy and we don’t stop.
- Fever or chills.
- Pus or bad smell from the site.
- You are unable to open your mouth.
- Prompt action can help prevent serious complications.
Gentle Care Leads to Faster Healing
Recovering from wisdom tooth extraction requires more than good rest; it also requires good choices. These choices include protecting the extraction site, adhering to your dentist’s instructions, and allowing your body enough time to recover. Remember to be patient with your body! Allow yourself the time to heal and avoid vigorous activity, listen to your body, and avoid activity that is difficult or painful. With proper care, you will soon be talking, smiling, and eating! It will even be important to stay consistent with your aftercare routine and regimen, even when you start to feel better. Every step you take toward healing adds up to more recovery sooner.
Recover Comfortably with Calma Dental
At Calma Dental, we know that dental recovery after tooth removal can be somewhat overwhelming. Our caring staff is here to support you every step of the way, from your first visit to after your last follow-up. If you need a dental practice in Oakville that is loving and dependable, you have come to the right dental practice!
We truly are pleased to give you relief and reassurance in comfort and confidence! Make an appointment today and see how we can help you make your smile shiny!