Heal Swiftly After Your Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery
Ever been told you need your wisdom teeth removed? This common procedure can be daunting, but our dentists have your back! We’ll guide you through the wisdom teeth process and ensure you’re set up for a successful recovery.
To schedule getting your wisdom teeth removed, contact our Loveland, CO dentist at (970) 669-3918.
What Is Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Wisdom teeth removal refers to the surgical procedure used to extract one or more third molars, commonly known as wisdom teeth. These are the last set of molars located at the back of the mouth and typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood (usually between the ages of 17 and 25).
Wisdom teeth are often removed for various reasons, including:
- Impaction: When a wisdom tooth is partially or fully trapped in the gums or jawbone. Your dentist or oral surgeon especially recommends removing impacted wisdom teeth to avoid severe pain and tooth decay in other teeth.
- Overcrowding: If wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly.
- Infections or gum disease: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, leading to infections or gum disease.
- Decay: Wisdom teeth are prone to decay due to their location and difficulty in cleaning.
- Cysts: Cysts may form around wisdom teeth, causing pain and discomfort.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Timeline
Recovery from wisdom teeth removal typically takes between one and two weeks, with varying levels of pain, swelling, and bruising throughout the recovery process.
Day of Extraction and the First 24 Hours:
- Immediate Hours After Surgery: You may experience numbness in your mouth due to local anesthesia.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding or oozing is normal.
- Pain: Begin taking painkillers as recommended by your dentist.
- Swelling: Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.
- Diet: Stick to soft foods and liquids.
Days 2 and 3:
- Swelling: May peak around this time.
- Pain: Continue taking painkillers as needed.
- Diet: Continue with soft foods.
Days 4-7:
- Swelling: Should begin to decrease.
- Pain: May be more manageable.
- Oral Care: Gently rinse with warm salt water.
- Stitches: If used, may be removed around this time.
Week 2:
- Healing: Most of the immediate surgical wounds should be healing or healed.
- Diet: Gradually return to your normal diet.
- Oral Hygiene: Resume your regular oral care routine.
Weeks 3 and 4:
- Healing: Deeper tissue and bone can take a few months to fully heal.
Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- Ice Packs and Pain Relief: Use ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
- Diet and Nutrition: Eat soft, nutritious foods and avoid straws.
- Potential Complications: Be aware of complications and seek medical help if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
While pain and swelling typically last for three to seven days, it can take longer if teeth are impacted. Complications such as infection or dry socket can also extend this recovery period. Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage discomfort.
Swelling is a natural response to trauma and is part of the body’s healing process. After a wisdom tooth extraction, the tissues around the extraction site become inflamed. The swelling typically peaks around the 2nd or 3rd day and starts subsiding thereafter.
Most of the swelling should be gone by the end of the first week. To reduce swelling, you can apply a cold pack to the affected area for the first 48 hours and then switch to warm compresses.
Our Dentist Will Help Ensure a Seamless Recovery
Ensure a smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal by following post-care instructions! By following the advice from our Loveland, CO dentists, you’ll be well on your way to a speedy recovery.
To schedule an appointment, contact our Loveland dental office at (970) 669-3918. We welcome patients from Boulder, Fort Collins, and Evans.