Wisdom tooth removal is a common procedure that involves the removal of one or more of your wisdom teeth. If you have this type of procedure, following your dentist’s instructions for after-care will help increase your chances of healing as quickly as possible without complications.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth often cause problems and need to be removed for one of the following reasons:
They’re Impacted
Wisdom teeth may erupt only partially or may remain trapped underneath the gums, which can cause symptoms such as pain.
Teeth Are Crowded
Your jaw may not have enough room to accommodate this extra set of molars.
Coming in Crooked
If your wisdom teeth come in crooked, they may press against other teeth and cause them to become crooked as well.
Dental Issues
It’s easy for food to become trapped between wisdom teeth and adjacent teeth. They’re hard to reach to brush and floss well, so if you’re prone to getting cavities or gum disease, your dentist may recommend that they are pulled.
What Precautions Should You Take After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Take the following steps to care for your mouth after your wisdom teeth are removed:
Change Your Gauze
You’ll go home with gauze gently pressed where your tooth or teeth were removed, so it will need to be replaced periodically.
Relieve Pain
Your doctor may prescribe pain medication or suggest taking over-the-counter medicine. You can also hold an ice pack or moist heat against your jaw if it’s sore.
Stay Hydrated
Drink lots of water after your surgery, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, or hot beverages for 24 hours.
Don’t Use a Straw
Skip using a straw for at least a week since it can dislodge the blood clot from the socket.
Rest
Get some rest after your wisdom teeth removal, and you should be able to start back on your regular activities the next day. Strenuous activity should be avoided for a week.
Take Care When Brushing
Wait until the second day to brush your teeth and avoid hitting against your blood clots.
What Are the Best Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The following foods can help you get the nutrition you need to promote wound healing while protecting your gum tissue:
- Yogurt
- Cottage cheese
- Mashed potatoes
- Oatmeal
- Thin soups
- Scrambled eggs
- Soft fish
- Very soft pasta
- Applesauce
- Fruit smoothies (as long as you don’t use a straw)
What Foods Should Be Avoided After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Avoid eating the following types of foods for up to a week after your oral surgery, since they can damage your gum tissue or cause irritation:
- Hard or Crunchy Foods – Chips, seeds, nuts, popcorn, and hard pretzels
- Spicy Foods
- Sticky Foods
- Acidic Fruits (i.e. oranges)
- Carbonated Drinks
- Hot Drinks
If you need dental care, including wisdom teeth removal, make an appointment today or call our office at 860-667-2600. At Cedar Mountain Dental, we provide exceptional care for all of your dental needs.