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Having your wisdom teeth removed isn’t anyone’s dream, but proper care afterwards makes the whole experience much more tolerable. Taking a little bit of care afterwards makes all the difference in avoiding pain, swelling, and annoying problems like infections or dry sockets. If you had your wisdom teeth removed, the following simple and essential tips will ensure your recovery goes smoothly.
5 Tips to Recover from Wisdom Teeth Removal
Go Easy on Your Diet
Your mouth will be slightly sore right after your extraction. Use soft, gentle foods, including mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, scrambled eggs, and warm, but not hot, soups. Avoid crunchy chips, hot food, or anything that could poke or irritate the healing area. It’s all about giving your gums a break but still fueling your recovery process.
Treat Bleeding and Swelling Like a Pro
Your dentist will likely provide you with some gauze to bite on to control the bleeding following your surgery. Keep it on for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, and change it as needed. Some bleeding during the first 24 hours is completely normal. If it seems excessive, don’t hesitate—call your dentist.
Skip the Smoke and Drinks
This one is important: zero smoking or alcohol intake during the healing process. Smoking, in particular, can hinder the blood clot that seals the extraction site, leading to something known as a dry socket—which hurts as badly as it sounds. Try your best to stay away from smoking for at least 72 hours, but the longer, the better.
Also Read: Why Thumb Sucking is Bad and How to Stop It in Your Child
Take Your Time and Take a Break
You might be okay, but your body has to heal. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, or anything that makes your heart beat too hard. Rest with your head higher than your feet to minimize swelling, and sleep as much as you need to.
Be on the Lookout for Danger
A little bit of puffiness and pain are normal, but when you are experiencing a lot of pain, fever, or bleeding all the time, call your dentist. If you catch the problem at the start, you won’t be in much trouble later on.
Final Thoughts
Recovery doesn’t have to be difficult. Just follow these simple tips, listen to your body, and be gentle with yourself. With Smithville Dental, you’ll be eating your favorite foods—and smiling without discomfort in no time!