If you have had one or all your wisdom teeth removed, expect the need to recover for at least one day after your surgery. Rest, fluids and nourishment are the best way to help your body recover when surgery, even tooth removal, has been performed. Our team at Stafford Oral Surgery & Specialists wants to help you recover quickly and comfortably after we perform your wisdom teeth removal surgery. Following these instructions can help eliminate complications and improve your experience.

If you have IV or general sedation during your procedure, you will need to follow the instructions for pre-surgery and be aware of post-anesthesia care. You may feel nauseated and need to limit intake to fluids after your procedure. For all wisdom teeth removal procedures, follow these instructions after you leave our office:

• Gauze pads are placed at the surgical site to stop bleeding. The initial pad should be kept in place for 30-45 minutes. Replace with a new gauze pad every 30 minutes until bleeding subsides.
• Do not rinse your mouth for 24-hours after surgery.
• Avoid touching the surgical area with your tongue or fingers – this can dislodge the blood clot.
• Do not drink through a straw – the sucking action can disturb the surgical area.
• Take pain medications as soon as you begin to feel discomfort when the numbing agent wears off.
• Drink at least 5-6 glasses of water or fluids the day of surgery.
• Do not smoke, drink alcohol or chew food near the surgical sites.

What to Expect During Recovery

The first day after your surgery should be for rest, recovery and replenishing fluids. After the first day, the pain or discomfort will begin to subside, but you may notice more swelling. Swelling is normal and usually is the worst 2-3 days after your procedure. Use ice packs on the outside of your mouth at the surgical sites for the first 36 hours to help reduce the amount of swelling that will occur.

You can eat foods and brush your teeth in the days following your surgery. Try to avoid chewing on the surgical area and carefully brush the teeth near the extraction sites. After the first day, you should rinse your mouth 4-6 times a day with salt water, especially after meals. It is important to eat high-calorie, high-protein foods the first day or two after your surgery.

If you have any concerns or questions after you have your wisdom teeth removed, contact Stafford Oral Surgery & Specialists for assistance.