7 Tips for a Successful Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Has your dentist recommended wisdom tooth extraction? Most patients aren’t exactly thrilled to hear they must undergo this oral surgery. However, knowing what to expect and properly preparing for your treatment can help you have an enjoyable experience. Did you know wisdom teeth extraction is one of the most common procedures in dentistry? By following a few simple guidelines set forth by our team at Silverwood Dental, you should experience a swift and speedy recovery.

Keep activity to a minimum

Avoid vigorous activity and heavy lifting for at least 48 hours following your wisdom tooth extraction procedure. When the heart rate rises, there is a greater possibility for swelling, bleeding, and post-operative discomfort. Therefore, we recommend going home and taking it easy. Set up camp on your couch and binge-watch your favourite TV show. Read that novel you bought last week. By exercising caution and patience during the first couple of days, it will ensure you are ready to resume normal routines as quickly as possible.

Take all medications as directed

You may be given prescriptions following your wisdom tooth extraction. The specific medications will depend on the complexity of your case. However, most patients will receive prescriptions for antibiotics and pain tablets. These should be taken exactly as directed by your dentist for optimal results. You may also take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.

Stock your pantry with soft, nutritious foods

Let’s face it. One of the best things about having your teeth extracted is that you can have ice cream, milkshakes, and other frozen treats with minimal guilt! Not only will this help you avoid hard, crunchy, and chewy foods, it can also help soothe the oral soft tissues. Be sure to eat your share of nutritious foods as well. This can include things like yogurt, soup, fish, and canned fruit. Once you are comfortable, more solid foods can be reintroduced.

Avoid drinking through straws

When a tooth is extracted, a blood clot establishes within the socket. This protects the surgical site and accelerates healing. Vigorous rinsing and drinking through straws can wash away the blood clot prematurely and cause a dry socket, a painful condition. Therefore, you should only sip from the side of a cup and avoid drinking through straws for approximately one week.

Use saltwater rinses

While you should avoid vigorous rinsing, a gentle swish with warm saltwater can actually soothe the soft tissues and alleviate discomfort. For this first week, this should be completed after every meal to remove food deposits and bacteria. This will also help to prevent post-operative infections.

Elevate the head

Resting comfortably after wisdom teeth extraction is important; however, try to avoid lying flat as much as you can, propping yourself up at a 45-degree angle. This will keep your head above heart level and reduce inflammation and swelling.

Follow your post-surgical instructions

Every patient is unique; therefore, your dentist will provide you with a list of detailed post-operative instructions according to your specific situation. It is crucial that you follow these guidelines as closely as possible for a successful recovery.

Contact our dental office in Saskatoon to learn more

These are just a few of the things you can do to ensure a successful recovery after wisdom tooth extraction. To learn more, call our Saskatoon, SK dental office at 306-242-5233 or contact us online anytime. Our dental clinic is located on Lenore Dr., in between Primrose Dr. and Wanuskewin Rd./Warman Rd.