Many people who require dental surgery feel somewhat nervous about the wisdom teeth removal recovery process. It will take at least a few days for you to feel fully better after the surgery, but if you listen to your surgeon and follow the right steps, your recovery can be easy and stress-free.

plan ahead for dental surgery

Be prepared for the wisdom teeth removal recovery process.

Plan ahead for your recovery.

Consult with your dentist or your oral surgeon to find out what to expect during your recovery. Make sure you’ll have a few days off after the surgery to recuperate and consider asking a friend or family member to spend the day after the surgery with you.

Pick up any supplies you’ll need before your surgery. Some items you should have on hand include:

 

  • Liquids
  • Soft foods
  • Gauze
  • Ice packs

Get plenty of rest.

It may be tempting to jump right back into your normal daily life, but it’s best for long-term recovery to relax after your surgery. Avoid exercise for at least a day or two, get plenty of sleep, and keep your head elevated with pillows.

Food for the wisdom teeth removal recovery process

Image Credit: The Green Wife

Be careful with foods and drinks.

Avoid solid or crunchy foods in the days following your wisdom teeth extraction. Be careful with exceptionally hot or cold drinks, and don’t use straws. Some of the best soft foods during recovery include:

  • Soup
  • Pudding
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Fruit smoothies

Control swelling and bleeding.

You can help reduce pain and swelling after your surgery by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water. This is especially effective after eating or drinking. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for 20 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours after the procedure. In the next few days, use a warm damp washcloth instead.

If your mouth bleeds, bite down on a piece of gauze, but change the pads of gauze frequently. If you’re still bleeding 24 hours after the surgery, contact your oral surgeon.

Wisdom teeth removal is a big procedure, but you can make your recovery easier with these tips. If you’re looking for a specialist in Monroe for oral surgery, contact our office today to schedule an appointment. Our Monroe oral surgery experts will tell you exactly how you can have a speedy recovery.

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