Summary: Early period after wisdom teeth removal can be a cause for concern for many people. It is natural to experience some discomfort, but it is important to know when to seek medical attention. Here are some common aspects to keep in mind when dealing with the early period after wisdom teeth removal.
1. The First Few Days
It is normal to experience some level of pain and swelling in the first few days after your wisdom teeth extraction. The level of pain and discomfort can vary from person to person, but you will likely be given pain medication to help manage any pain you experience. Applying an ice pack to your cheeks can also help manage swelling.
During the first few days, it is also important to take steps to avoid complications that could arise from improper care of the extraction site. This includes avoiding smoking, using straws, or eating hard or crunchy foods. Stick to soft foods like smoothies and mashed potatoes to prevent further irritation to the extraction site.
If you experience excessive bleeding or pain that cannot be managed with medication, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.
2. Oral Hygiene
Keeping your mouth clean is crucial after a wisdom teeth extraction. But it is important to be gentle to the extraction site, so as not to dislodge the blood clot that forms over it. You can brush your teeth as usual, but be sure to avoid the extraction site for the first few days. After that, use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean the area, being careful not to touch the blood clot.
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also help keep the area clean. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and swish it around your mouth. Be sure to spit the salt water out gently, and avoid rinsing too vigorously to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
Do not use mouthwash for the first few days, as the alcohol content can irritate the extraction site and delay the healing process.
3. Medication
Your dentist or oral surgeon will likely prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort you experience during the early period after your wisdom teeth removal. Be sure to take the medication as instructed, and only use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen if instructed to do so by your dental professional.
If you experience nausea as a side effect of your medication, try taking it with food. It is also important to avoid alcohol while taking prescription pain medication, as it can decrease its effectiveness and cause other complications.
If you have concerns about taking medication, be sure to speak with your dentist or oral surgeon before your surgery date to discuss alternative pain management options.
4. Dry Socket
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket dissolves or becomes dislodged before the wound has had a chance to heal. This can cause severe pain and discomfort and can delay the healing process.
To prevent dry socket, be sure to avoid smoking and using straws for the first few days after your extraction. Also, avoid spitting or rinsing your mouth too vigorously to avoid dislodging the blood clot. If you experience severe pain or notice a foul taste or odor in your mouth, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately.
Your dental professional will be able to treat dry socket by cleaning the area and placing a medicated dressing over the extraction site.
5. Swelling
Swelling is a common side effect of a wisdom teeth extraction and can be managed with an ice pack applied to the cheeks. After the first 48 hours, switch to a warm compress to help reduce swelling.
If the swelling does not go down or begins to worsen after the first few days, contact your dentist or oral surgeon to rule out any potential complications like infection or dry socket.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen can also help reduce swelling.
Conclusion:
Early period after wisdom teeth removal should be taken seriously, but with proper care and management, it will pass in due time. Remember to follow instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, avoid certain foods and activities during the healing process, and contact them if you notice any concerning or persistent symptoms.
With good oral hygiene practices and patience, the early period after wisdom teeth removal will soon be a distant memory.