Aftercare Tips for Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Whether they caused discomfort or placed your surrounding teeth at risk, you’re likely glad to be on the road to recovery. Though wisdom teeth extractions are a routine procedure, an extraction comes with some restrictions until the extraction site has healed. Follow these aftercare tips for wisdom teeth extractions to make the most of your recovery!

Protect the Extraction Site

The first 24 hours of tooth extraction are the most critical part of aftercare. During this time, a blood clot around the surgical site should form to start the healing process. A blood clot acts as a layer of protection for the exposed bone and nerve endings. It is best to avoid drinking with a straw, swishing, and avoiding smoking to encourage this clot to form. If you eat, chew on the opposite side of the extraction!

Eat Soft Foods Only

More than often, wisdom teeth extraction gets a rep for being the one procedure where ice cream is part of the aftercare diet. While ice cream is certainly soft, nutritious soft foods like eggs, yogurt, applesauce, soups, and smoothies should also be consumed for faster healing.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Even though the area might be tender, good oral hygiene is essential in the aftercare process! Brushing with a soft-bristled brush and paying attention while brushing around the extraction site can help alleviate discomfort and prevent damage. Performing saltwater rinses, when necessary, can help cleanse your mouth, and don’t forget to floss!

Contact Our Office

For a smooth recovery, follow our aftercare tips for wisdom teeth extractions! At Wedington Family Dental, we aim to make tooth extraction and restorative treatment as comfortable as possible. With proper care, you should be back to your regular routine in no time. If you experience anything out of the ordinary, contact our office, and our team will be happy to help!

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