Having your wisdom teeth removed is a surgical procedure that requires proper aftercare to minimize discomfort, swelling, or infection. Following these instructions closely will help you heal faster and reduce the risk of complications.
Slight bleeding or oozing is expected for up to 24 hours after surgery. Keep gauze over the extraction sites and bite down with firm pressure. Replace gauze every 30–45 minutes as needed. If bleeding continues, bite gently on a damp black tea bag for 30 minutes—tannic acid helps blood clot formation. Avoid spitting, rinsing forcefully, or using straws.
Swelling is common after oral surgery and may involve the cheeks, eyes, and sides of the face. It usually becomes noticeable the day after surgery and peaks around the second or third day. Apply ice packs continuously during waking hours for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, switch to moist heat to help reduce swelling. Jaw stiffness can also occur and is normal during recovery.
For more severe pain, take the prescribed medication as directed. Do not drive, drink alcohol, or use machinery while on prescription painkillers. Contact our office if the pain persists or worsens.
If you were under general anesthesia or IV sedation, begin with liquids. Avoid straws for one week after surgery, as suction can dislodge the blood clot. Stick to soft foods and avoid chewing near the surgical site. Eat high-calorie, high-protein foods, and stay hydrated by drinking at least 5–6 glasses of fluid daily. Try not to skip meals, as good nutrition helps the healing process.
CAUTION: Take your time when sitting or standing after lying down to avoid dizziness.
Do not rinse your mouth on the day of surgery. Starting the following day, rinse gently 5–6 times daily—especially after meals—with a warm saltwater solution (1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water).
Bruising around the cheeks or under the skin can occur a few days after surgery and may appear black, blue, green, or yellow. This is normal and may be reduced with warm compresses after the first 24 hours.
If antibiotics were prescribed, take them exactly as instructed. Stop taking them if you notice a rash or other adverse reaction and call our office immediately.
If you experience nausea, avoid consuming anything—including medications—for at least an hour. Then sip slowly on clear fluids like ginger ale or tea. Once nausea subsides, you may resume eating and taking medication.
Sutures may be placed to reduce bleeding and support healing. Usually they will dissolve or unravel on their own. If they fall out early, don’t worry—just remove them from your mouth.
You may notice a hollow space where the tooth was removed. This will gradually fill in with tissue. Keep it clean with rinsing and gentle brushing. If you are provided a syringe, start irrigating the lower surgical sites after day five.
Each recovery is unique. If you have concerns, reach out to Dr. Williams or your general dentist.
Brushing your teeth is okay—just be gentle near the surgery site.
A “dry socket” can occur if the clot is dislodged too soon. This may result in pain radiating to the ear around 2–3 days post-op. Contact our office if this happens.
