What to expect after wisdom teeth removal

Although some people get all of their wisdom teeth through without any issues, unfortunately this isn’t the case for everyone. Wisdom teeth can cause severe pain, infection and abscesses, swollen gums and overcrowding and quite often the only option is to have them removed. It’s a given that you won’t feel anything during the removal procedure itself thanks to anaesthetic but what about afterwards? We’re here today to talk about what you can expect after wisdom teeth removal.

Recovery after wisdom teeth removal

You can expect some level of pain or discomfort after the removal of your wisdom teeth but the extent of this will depend on your situation. For example, if your wisdom teeth were fully erupted or you only had one or two removed, you can expect a quicker recovery time than someone whose wisdom teeth haven’t emerged properly or had all four removed.

Once your anaesthetic wears off, you’ll generally experience pain and swelling. There is also likely to be a small amount of bleeding. Recovery time following wisdom tooth extraction is typically between three days and a week.

Caring for your mouth after surgery

Immediately after the surgery, you’ll have gauze placed over the area where your tooth was removed. Gently bite down on the gauze to make sure it stays in place and replace them if they become soaked with blood. Apply icepacks to the outside of your jaw to help with any swelling. Even if you’re not feeling much pain, be gentle. Avoid vigorously rinsing out your mouth and don’t go poking around the surgical area. Brush your teeth very gently and begin very gentle saltwater mouth rinses once the bleeding has stopped.

Your mouth will initially feel quite tender so choose soft, easy to chew foods. Avoid hot beverages or drinking through a straw as this could dislodge the blood clot in the removal site. You should also avoid smoking. One of the best ways to keep pain at bay is to listen to your dentist’s advice about pain relief and take painkillers that have been prescribed as necessary.

When to call your dentist

Although most wisdom teeth removal procedures run smoothly, you need to contact your dentist if you notice symptoms such as oozing pus, fever or severe pain. This could be a sign that infection has set in. Your dentist is there to help you get through the recovery as quickly as possible so if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact during the recovery period.

The dentists at Carillon City Dental have extensive experience with wisdom tooth extraction and we can answer any questions or concerns you may have in the relaxed atmosphere of our state of the art clinic. If you’re experiencing pain, infection or other issues associated with your wisdom teeth, book an appointment with us and we can set out a treatment plan.

For wisdom teeth removal Perth, contact Carillon City Dental today on (08) 9322 5340 or make an appointment through our online booking system.