You’re not alone if you’re feeling nervous about an upcoming wisdom tooth extraction because you’re worried the procedure will be long or agonizing. Thankfully, most dentists understand that patients get anxious and will undoubtedly numb your mouth and/or provide sedation to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout your appointment.
That means you likely won’t have to worry about aches until afterward. Continue reading to learn more about what’s considered normal during healing so you know what to expect and set your mind at ease.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Wisdom Tooth Removal?
It’s only natural to have questions about a major procedure, such as a wisdom tooth extraction, and many patients wonder how long their recovery is likely to take. Although your experience might vary based on your unique circumstances, most people can expect to feel fully mended within a week or two.
It’s imperative that your mouth forms a blood clot at the surgical site within the first 24 hours to protect the recently exposed nerves and tissues. Then, it’s normal to feel swollen and sore for several days, though these symptoms usually peak after the 3rd day and then begin to gradually subside.
If your provider sutured your wound closed, they may require another appointment after about a week to remove them. Otherwise, you can expect associated symptoms, including jaw stiffness, inflammation, or aches, to fade until they’re gone after about 14 days.
How Can I Avoid Potential Complications During Recovery?
Your dental team will provide a list of post-operative instructions to follow after your procedure that are intended to help you heal as quickly and effectively as possible while avoiding potential side effects. For instance, if the blood clot(s) that are essential to healing are damaged or dislodged, you could develop a painful complication known as dry socket.
Some common aftercare instructions might include:
- Avoid physical activities that elevate your heart rate or blood pressure, which can harm the clot or push it out of place.
- Stick to softer, blander foods, such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce, that are unlikely to trigger additional irritation.
- Rinse your mouth with salt water in the first 24 hours to disinfect your mouth then resume brushing and flossing carefully as you’re able.
- Don’t smoke or drink through a straw because the force of suction can dislodge your clot.
- Drink plenty of fluids to support your immune system and oral health.
If you have other questions about avoiding potential problems as you recover, your dentist can provide more detailed information based on your individual circumstances!
About the Practice
Patients at Smile Keepers benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping them build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Sumeet Sharma and Dr. Saru Sharma share decades of combined experience and today collaborate to provide a complete menu of services, including wisdom tooth extractions, under one roof to meet your needs. They offer sedation to help you get through your treatment successfully, regardless of the reason for your visit. If you’re worried about problematic wisdom teeth, you can request an appointment on the website or call (979) 830-5022.