Wisdom Teeth Removal: What Are Post-Extraction Considerations?

Do you have a wisdom teeth removal procedure coming up? If so, you probably have some questions about what to expect after treatment. Having your wisdom teeth removed is a wise investment in your oral health, and following the post-operative instructions your oral surgeon provides is very important for enjoying a quick, optimal recovery. The following are some post-extraction considerations you will need to consider after having a wisdom tooth removed.

Liquid and Soft Diet

When teeth are surgically removed, it is very important for patients to adopt a temporary diet of liquid and soft foods. Eating crispy or chewy items with sharp edges can actually prevent you from healing as quickly as possible after your wisdom teeth have been extracted. Moreover, liquid and soft foods help prevent discomfort associated with eating after surgical procedures.

Suitable liquid items include smoothies, milkshakes, and broths. Soft food examples include pudding, jello, soups, and soft, steamed vegetables.

Controlling Discomfort

After any kind of oral surgery, the tissue will be sore. Controlling discomfort after a tooth extraction will involve taking medication (as directed and when necessary) along with placing a cold compress on the outside of the mouth, alternating from the left side to the right. A cold compress used the first day and a half after treatment can greatly reduce swelling. When tissue swells as a response to trauma, it can produce discomfort. Controlling swelling helps patients stay comfortable after surgery.

Preventing Dry Socket

Dry socket is an issue that all patients should look out for after tooth extraction. Preventing dry socket means that a person should follow post-operative instructions very closely. Dry socket forms when the blood clot that develops over an empty tooth socket is dislodged. The blood clot that forms is necessary for healing and if it is disrupted, dry socket can develop. Dry socket is painful and drastically affects the healing process. If a dry socket develops, patients should call our practice as soon as possible.

For additional questions, contact our team at Stonebriar Facial & Oral Surgery.