The Dos and Don'ts of Recovering From Wisdom Tooth Extractions

March 22, 2023

Are you preparing to have your wisdom teeth extracted soon? Read here for the most important dos and don'ts of recovering from wisdom tooth extractions.

About 10 million wisdom teeth are removed each year.

This is because wisdom teeth are not necessary and can actually cause issues for our oral health if we are not careful.

If you think you need to get your wisdom teeth out, you need to talk to a dentist. They can help walk you through if wisdom teeth removal is right for you.

And if it is, you'll want to know the do's and don'ts of getting your wisdom teeth out! Keep reading about everything you need to know about getting your wisdom tooth extractions.

The Do's of Wisdom Tooth Extractions

When you are going in to get your wisdom teeth out, you probably want to know what to do beforehand.

What are you supposed to eat the day of - if anything? What should you be preparing for after the extractions?

Here's what to do!

Rest

One of the most important things that you can do after you get your wisdom teeth out is to rest. Your body is trying to heal, so the more you rest, the faster you will get better.

Use Ice

After you get your wisdom teeth out, you should plan to ice the first 24-48 hours after the extraction. This will reduce the swelling.

To properly ice, use the ice pack for 15 minutes on and then 15 minutes off. Repeat this for an hour. Do this a few times per day for optimal results.

Keep It Clean

The area of the extraction is more susceptible to infection than the rest of your mouth. To avoid this, you need to keep it clean after the extraction. You should use a saltwater solution multiple times per day.

Gargle with the saltwater solution after every meal and before bed. You can also do this when you feel like you need to, as it isn't going to hurt you to do it more than a few times.

Bite On Cotton Gauze

Biting on the cotton gauze near the area of the extraction will prevent the area from bleeding. The longer you use it, the less it will bleed and eventually stop as well.

Eat on the Opposite Side

Depending on where your tooth is extracted from, you're going to want to eat on the opposite side. This will help keep the area clean and also reduce pain.

Not only that, but eating on the other side will also allow the wound to heal quicker than if you constantly eat and irritate it on that side.

Do Jaw Exercises

Jaw exercises will help your mouth stay more flexible after the extraction. You should open and close your mouth for several exercises at a time, a few times per day.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

It is extremely important to continue to drink fluids after your extraction. However, you need to keep in mind that you should not drink anything with a straw!

The best fluid to drink after the extraction is water.

Brush Gently

You do not want to irritate the extraction site any more than it already is. This means you need to brush your teeth very gently. Additionally, you can avoid brushing altogether for the first day after the extraction.

The Don'ts of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Now that you know what you should be doing after you get your wisdom teeth out, you should also know what to avoid!

This can make your recovery go much, much better.

Avoid Straws

As mentioned before, you should avoid straws after a wisdom tooth extraction. This also means you need to avoid sucking, spitting, or smoking as your mouth moves in the same way.

Avoiding these activities will allow the blood clot to form over the extraction site.

If the blood clot becomes dislodged at any time, it will lead to more bleeding and more pain. You also could potentially develop a dry socket, which is a painful infection that you do not want to deal with.

Stay Away From Solid Food

After the extraction, you shouldn't be consuming any solid food. This should wait until ideally 6 hours after surgery, but the longer you wait, the better.

You should also avoid hard foods such as popcorn and chips for about a week after the extraction.

The golden rule is to stick with softer foods such as mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, pasta, etc., instead of other types of food.

You should also stay away from spicy or hot foods as well.

Don't Ice After 48 Hours

Icing is important for the first 48 hours, but after, you should switch to placing heat on the area. This will soothe pain and promote healing.

Don't Take Aspirin

Although you may be in pain after the extraction, you don't want to take any Aspirin.

This is a blood thinner and will promote bleeding, which is the opposite thing that you want to happen.

Everything You Need to Know About Wisdom Tooth Extractions

Although getting wisdom tooth extractions is never fun, knowing what to do and what not to do is extremely helpful in the process.

Are you thinking about having a tooth extraction soon? You can contact us - a dentist in Largo, FL - to help you through the process.

You can sign up as a new patient here. We have years of experience with extractions. We will make sure you are as comfortable as possible to reduce your worries and anxieties about the procedure.

And don't forget to smile through it all!

< Older Post Newer Post >

Restoring Your Smile with Full Mouth Reconstruction: Is It Right for You?

By Bardmoor Family Dental • March 13, 2025

You will likely be surprised to learn that one billion people have experienced a traumatic dental injury, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine. Full mouth reconstruction offers a transformative solution for individuals with extensive dental problems, restoring function and beauty. If you have been considering this comprehensive treatment, evaluating whether it is the right choice for your needs and lifestyle is crucial. Below, we will examine the key ways to tell if it is. Assessing Your Dental Health Needs Assessing your dental health before deciding if full mouth reconstruction is right for you is essential. A thorough examination will help identify underlying problems like tooth decay or misalignment. If these issues are present, addressing them through cosmetic dental procedures may be necessary to achieve the best results. Evaluating Your Candidacy for Full Mouth Reconstruction Full mouth reconstruction is not right for everyone, but it may be ideal if you have suffered extensive tooth damage or wear. If you have experienced severe tooth decay or genetic issues affecting your teeth, this procedure can help restore your smile and functionality. It is crucial to consider your age and the condition of your teeth before moving forward with a comprehensive treatment plan. Additionally, your overall health and commitment to long-term dental care can influence your ability to benefit from this process. If you have any underlying health conditions, be sure to discuss these with your dentist to avoid complications. You may be a strong candidate for full mouth reconstruction if you are dealing with: Severe tooth decay Multiple missing teeth Issues with bite or alignment These factors can all influence the success of your treatment, so it is crucial to assess each one carefully. Understanding the Benefits of Your Smile One of the primary reasons people choose full mouth reconstruction is to improve their smile's appearance. You can gain a natural-looking smile that enhances your overall appearance by addressing cosmetic and functional issues. The benefits of dental reconstruction go beyond aesthetics. A restored smile can also improve your confidence, allowing you to smile freely and without embarrassment. Weighing the Risks and Considerations Every dental procedure carries some risk, and full mouth reconstruction is no exception. The complexity of this treatment can mean longer recovery times and more follow-up visits than other procedures. There is also the financial aspect to consider, as it is a significant investment in time and money. While complete mouth restoration improves your smile and functionality, it may not address all cosmetic concerns or improve oral health. Determining the Cost vs Long-Term Value The cost of full mouth reconstruction can vary widely depending on the procedures required and the extent of work needed. While keeping your budget in mind is essential, you should also consider the long-term value of the investment. Full mouth restoration can improve the function and appearance of your teeth, reducing the need for future oral surgery and improving your quality of life. The initial cost might seem high, but the benefits of a restored smile and better oral health are well worth it for many. To better understand the total cost, talk to your dentist about available payment plans or financing options. Costs may include: Initial consultations and exams Cosmetic dental procedures like crowns or dentures Surgery, if required, for jaw alignment or implants Understanding these costs upfront will help you plan financially for the procedure. How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Decision Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining whether a full mouth reconstruction is correct for you. Consider the time commitment involved if you lead a busy life and have limited time for extensive dental treatments. The recovery period can vary depending on the procedures you undergo, and you may need time off work or regular follow-ups. If you have habits such as teeth grinding or smoking, these can affect the outcome of your reconstruction. Consulting With a Specialist for Expert Advice When considering a complex procedure like full mouth reconstruction, consulting with a specialist in the field is essential. A cosmetic dentist or oral surgeon can offer in-depth insight into treatment options. These experts are trained to assess your needs and tailor a treatment plan that fits your cosmetic and functional goals. They will clearly understand the complete mouth restoration process and what to expect. Exploring Alternatives to Full Mouth Reconstruction While full mouth reconstruction can be life-changing, it is not the only option available. If your dental issues are less severe, less invasive treatments may effectively address your needs. For example, veneers or bridges might provide a cosmetic solution without the extensive work required for complete restoration. In some cases, orthodontics or dental implants may be all that is needed to improve your smile. Talk to your dentist about the best options to match your goals and lifestyle, and weigh the pros and cons of each. Alternatives to consider: Dental veneers for cosmetic enhancement Teeth whitening for a brighter smile Dental implants for missing teeth These options offer a less invasive approach while improving your smile and functionality. Making an Informed Decision for Your Future Ultimately, the decision to undergo full mouth reconstruction should be made after careful consideration of your: Needs Goals Lifestyle Take the time to gather information and weigh the benefits of a smile makeover against the possible risks. This process is a long-term investment in your smile, and it is essential that you feel confident about your choice. A Full Mouth Reconstruction Could Be the Answer You Are Looking For Deciding whether full mouth reconstruction is right for you involves careful thought and consultation with your dentist. By considering your dental health, lifestyle, and long-term goals, you can make an informed decision that will positively impact your smile and mental health. Bardmoor Family Dental offers comprehensive, compassionate dental care tailored to your needs. From general dentistry to advanced cosmetic treatments, we provide high-quality services to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about how we can help.