Do you have a wisdom teeth removal appointment coming up on your calendar? While you may not be super excited about it, you’ll be grateful you took care of getting these problematic teeth removed. As you get ready for the appointment, here are several things that you should know:
1. Post-Procedure Discomfort Is Normal
While your dental team does everything they can to minimize any discomfort you might be feeling during the actual wisdom teeth removal, it’s completely normal to feel some discomfort in the afterman as the local anesthetic and/or dental sedation wears off. This shouldn’t last more than a few days and will lessen over time. Use an ice pack and sit and sleep with an extra pillow to manage swelling. Your dentist will give you information about what pain medication to use as well.
2. Using a Straw Afterward Is a No-No
The suction that’s created when you use a straw can actually dislodge the blood clots that your body is forming in the treatment areas. These are vital for proper healing. Stick to normal until you’ve fully recovered. Otherwise, the clots can dislodge, causing intense pain and delayed healing.
3. You Will Need a Designated Driver
Depending on what kind of anesthesia or sedation you’re getting for your wisdom teeth removal, it’s very likely that you’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure is finished. You won’t be in the right condition to drive yourself safely, so it’s time to call in that favor with your friend or family member.
4. Rest, Drink Water & Eat Soft Foods
You should focus on resting as much as possible after your procedure. Additionally, drink plenty of water and take it easy when eating. Stick to soft foods, like yogurt, scrambled eggs, applesauce, smoothies (without little seeds), mashed potatoes, pureed soups, and bananas. Avoid hard and crunchy foods that can irritate your extraction sites, like pretzels, chips, and hard bread.
If you’re looking for more tips about handling wisdom teeth extraction, then don’t be shy and contact us at Hermitage Dental Group. As providers of wisdom teeth removal, we would be more than happy to share some additional information about what goes on during the procedure and what happens afterward during the recovery process. We’re also here for any of your other dental needs so feel free to call or email us to set up your next appointment.
Wisdom teeth image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0