Grimsby Smiles Dentistry - Blog

Understanding Your Wisdom Teeth Recovery

At Grimsby Smiles Dentistry, we understand that the prospect of wisdom teeth removal can be quite intimidating. As your neighborhood dental experts, we're here to guide you through each step of your recovery process. Our team of dedicated professionals has assisted numerous patients in achieving comfortable and successful healing post-wisdom teeth extraction.

First 24 Hours After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Tips for Necessary Care

The day following wisdom teeth removal sets the stage for your recovery. Here's how you should spend it:

• Gently press gauze pads for a few hours
• Rest with your head higher than your heart to reduce swelling
• Use ice packs in 15-minute increments
• Avoid rinsing, spitting, or drinking through a straw
• Take medications as instructed

Post-Wisdom Teeth Removal Comfort Management

Let's talk about swelling - it's probably one of the biggest concerns our patients have. While some puffiness is to be expected after wisdom teeth removal, we have a few tried-and-true methods to keep you comfortable. For the first 48 hours, ice packs will be your best friend. Apply them gently to your cheeks in sets of 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off.

After day two, we suggest switching to warm compresses, which aid in the healing process by increasing blood flow to the area. Many of our patients find sleeping with an extra pillow helps reduce overnight swelling too.

What to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Removal

"What can I eat?" This is usually the first question our patients ask after wisdom teeth removal. Don't worry - you won’t be stuck on a liquid diet forever!

For the first day, stick to cool, smooth foods like smoothies (just remember - no straws!). Yogurt, pudding, and warm soup are good choices during the first days when you start to feel a little better. One of our patients reported that cold mashed potatoes were her "recovery comfort food." Most people can handle soft pasta, scrambled eggs, and other soft foods by day three or four. Just be patient and avoid anything hot, spicy, or hard until you heal completely.

Warning Signs Following Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Though infrequent, complications can arise following wisdom teeth removal. You need to know what to look for. Think of your body's healing signals like a traffic light system:

• Green: Healing normally, expected swelling and discomfort.
• Yellow: Increased pain or swelling after day three; give us a call if you notice these.
• Red: Warning signs needing immediate attention, such as:
  • Heavy bleeding
  • Inability to manage pain with medication
  • Signs of infection (e.g., fever)

Our patients are always comforted in the knowledge that if they have any concerns post-operatively, they can reach us at (289) 235-9117.

Oral Hygiene

The thought of oral hygiene can be daunting immediately after your surgery, but it is easier than you think. For the first 24 hours, consider your mouth a healing haven - the less disturbance, the better.

Following this initial period, you will begin a gentle cleaning schedule. One of the most frequently asked questions patients have regarding post-surgery care involves brushing. Yes, you may brush your teeth; however, be very gentle around the surgical sites. We will also recommend a special mouth rinse that aids in keeping the area clean without interfering with healing.

Return to Normal Activities

Everybody's recovery is a little different, but here's what typically occurs:

• Most of our patients can resume work or school in 3-4 days.
• Sarah, one of our recent patients, was back teaching by day four, though she waited a full week before returning to her yoga classes.

Listen to your body - it will usually be the best guide for resuming normal activities. Full healing takes place over a period of 2-3 weeks, and we will guide you through the process.

Professional Care at Grimsby Smiles Dentistry

Here at Grimsby Smiles Dentistry, we believe recovery support is equally important to the procedure itself. Our 264 Main St. E. team offers integrated care that does not stop at the door of our office. From consultations down to follow-ups, we are here to answer all your questions, guide you, and ensure a smooth recovery.

Want to learn more about wisdom teeth removal or have recovery questions? We'd love to help. Contact our friendly team at (289) 235-9117. We are dedicated to creating a comfort-centered experience with each wisdom tooth surgery.

As we always say, good post-operative care makes all the difference in recovery. Schedule a consultation today and discuss your concerns about impacted wisdom teeth with our experienced team.