Wisdom Teeth Removal and Post-Procedure Care | Vernon Dental 

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last molars that typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. While they serve no essential purpose, they can often cause discomfort and dental issues, leading many individuals to seek wisdom teeth removal. If you’re about to undergo this standard dental procedure at our Vernon Dental clinic, it’s essential to understand what to expect during the recovery period and how to care for your mouth afterward. 

Immediate Post-Procedure Care

After your wisdom teeth removal at Vernon Dental, you’ll be in a recovery area for a short while to ensure you’re comfortable and stable. Here are some crucial steps during this immediate post-procedure phase:

Gauze Placement: Bite down gently on the provided gauze to control bleeding. Change the gauze as instructed by your dentist.

Pain Management: You may experience some pain or discomfort. Your dentist will prescribe or recommend over-the-counter pain medications to manage it.

Rest and Relaxation: Rest for at least 24 hours post-surgery. Avoid any strenuous activities that could disrupt the healing process.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising around the jawline are common after wisdom teeth removal. To reduce these symptoms:

Cold Compress: Apply a cold compress to your face for 20-minute intervals in the first 24-48 hours. This can help minimize swelling.

Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and promote healing:

Gentle Rinsing: On the day after surgery, start gentle salt water rinses several times daily to keep the extraction sites clean.

Avoid Brushing: Avoid brushing the surgical areas for the first few days. Instead, use a syringe or a prescribed mouthwash for cleaning.

Diet Modifications

Eating soft, nutritious foods is essential during the initial recovery period:

Soft Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and soup for the first few days.

Avoid Chewing: Avoid chewing directly over the surgical sites.

Hydration: Drink plenty of water, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge blood clots.

Medications and Follow-Up Appointments

Follow your dentist’s instructions regarding medications and follow-up appointments:

Prescribed Medications: Take any prescribed antibiotics or pain relievers as directed.

Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments at Vernon Dental to monitor your healing progress.

Complications to Watch For

While complications are rare, it’s essential to be aware of potential issues:

Dry Socket: If you experience severe pain and notice an empty-looking socket after a few days, contact your dentist immediately.

Infection: Signs of infection include fever, persistent pain, and swelling. Contact your dentist if you suspect an infection.

Gradual Recovery

Keep in mind that everyone’s recovery timeline is different. While most people feel better within a week, full recovery can take several weeks. Be patient and follow your dentist’s recommendations for a smooth and successful healing process.

Wisdom teeth removal is a standard dental procedure that requires careful aftercare. Our priority at our Vernon Dental clinic is your comfort and well-being throughout the process. Following these post-procedure care guidelines can help ensure a smooth recovery and protect your oral health. Regehr Family Dental offers wisdom teeth removal services; visit our website to learn more.