How To Speed Up Wisdom Teeth Recovery – Get Our Expert Tips
Navigating life after wisdom teeth removal can feel like a rollercoaster. But don’t worry, you’ve got this! With the right care and a little know-how, you can bounce back quickly. We’ll share expert tips to help you heal faster and guide you through the dos and don’ts of liquids during your recovery.
How To Speed Up Wisdom Teeth Recovery?
Recovering from wisdom teeth removal can be smoother with the right steps. Here are some effective wisdom teeth recovery tips:
Rest and Relax:
Take it easy for the first few days after surgery. Resting helps your body focus on healing. Avoid strenuous activities and physical exertion.
Soft Foods Diet:
Stick to a diet of soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies for the first few days. Gradually reintroduce solid foods as you heal.
Oral Hygiene:
Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater starting 24 hours after surgery to keep the area clean. Avoid brushing near the extraction site initially to speed up wisdom teeth recovery.
Avoid Smoking:
Do not smoke as it can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. It can also help heal quickly from wisdom teeth removal.
Pain Management:
Take pain relievers as per your dentist’s advice after wisdom teeth removal. Over-the-counter options can also help reduce pain and inflammation.
What To Avoid Immediately After Surgery
Don’t Push Yourself:
Don’t be a hero! Avoid lifting heavy stuff, intense workouts, and jumping back into work too quickly. Your body needs time to heal. Listen to it and gradually increase your activity level as your doctor says. You’ll be back to normal in no time.
Never Ignore Warning Signs:
It’s normal to feel a little ache and pain after the surgery but keep an eye out for red flags like swelling, fever, or redness. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to give your doctor a call.
Don’t Skip Medications:
Even if you feel better, complete the entire course of antibiotics or other medications prescribed by your doctor.
Do Not Socialize:
Limiting visitors, especially those who are sick can help prevent exposure to germs while your immune system is recovering.
Can I Drink Water After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Yes, you can drink water after wisdom teeth removal. Staying hydrated helps your body heal and prevents complications like dry sockets. Drinking water helps flush food particles and bacteria away from the surgical site, promoting a clean healing environment.
When And How To Drink Water Safely Post-Surgery
- You can start sipping on water as soon as you feel comfortable after surgery, usually within a few hours.
- Large gulps can irritate the surgical site. Instead, take small, frequent sips throughout the day.
- Avoid hot beverages that can irritate the extraction site. Opt for cool or lukewarm water.
- The sucking motion from a straw can dislodge the blood clot. Stick to cups or glasses for drinking.
Types Of Liquids To Avoid
Here are some liquids to avoid after wisdom teeth removal:
Carbonated Drinks:
The fizz can irritate the surgical site, cause discomfort, and can impact the speed of wisdom teeth recovery.
Alcohol:
Alcohol can interfere with healing and increase the risk of bleeding.
Sugary Drinks:
Sugary drinks can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of infection.
Caffeinated Drinks:
Caffeine can dehydrate you, which is counterproductive during recovery.
How To Reduce Wisdom Teeth Swelling?
Use ice packs on the outside of your cheeks over the affected area to minimize swelling after wisdom teeth removal. Apply the ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks of 20 minutes in between, during the first 24-48 hours post-surgery. This helps to reduce swelling and numb the area.
How To Make Wisdom Teeth Swelling Go Down Overnight
To make wisdom teeth swelling go down overnight you can take the following steps:
Sleep with Your Head Elevated:
Ensure your head is elevated by using multiple pillows or a wedge pillow to keep your head higher than your heart while sleeping. This position helps reduce fluid accumulation in the surgical area.
Avoid Salty Foods:
Stay away from salty foods, as they can cause water retention and increase swelling. Stick to a soft, bland diet to avoid irritation.
Stay Calm and Relaxed:
Stress and anxiety can exacerbate swelling. Engage in relaxation techniques like deep breathing or listening to calming music to help your body relax and heal more effectively.
Does Heat Help Wisdom Teeth Swelling?
Yes, heat can help wisdom teeth swelling but with limitations. Heat can be helpful for pain relief and promoting blood flow in the later stages to speed up wisdom teeth recovery usually after 48 hours. However, it’s not the first-line treatment for reducing swelling.
When To Use Heat Versus Cold Compresses?
Every case is unique, and your dentist can advise if heat therapy is suitable for your specific situation. You can do heat therapy after the initial swelling subsides. Cold therapy is king during this initial phase for minimizing inflammation.
You can do cold therapy immediately after surgery and for the first 48 hours. It is the most effective way to reduce swelling and provide pain relief. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, for several hours a day.
How Soon Can You Talk After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It’s best to limit talking for at least the first 24-48 hours while you can talk soon after wisdom teeth removal. Because the local anesthesia used during surgery can leave your mouth numb for several hours. Talking while numb can be difficult and slurred.
Your mouth will feel sore after surgery, and talking a lot can make it even more uncomfortable. It’s important to let your mouth rest so it can heal properly. Try to keep your chats short and sweet for a few days.
Tips To Minimize Discomfort While Speaking
- Avoid yelling or shouting, which can irritate the surgical site.
- Stick to brief conversations to minimize strain on your jaw muscles.
- If you experience any discomfort while talking, take a break and resume later.
- Use texting, writing notes, or gestures for initial communication needs.
Can You Work After Tooth Extraction?
You might think you can jump back into work the same day, but it’s usually better to take a chill pill and rest for at least a day to speed up wisdom teeth recovery. If your job is super demanding, you might need more time off. Every situation is different, so talk to your dentist about when it’s safe for you to head back to the office.
Should I Take A Day Off Work After Tooth Extraction
In most cases, taking at least one day off after a tooth extraction is recommended. This allows your body to focus on healing and reduces the risk of talking, chewing, and focusing can be tiring after surgery.
FAQs
Can I Drink Lemonade After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
No, you should not drink lemonade after wisdom teeth removal if you want to speed up the wisdom teeth recovery process. Lemonade is acidic and can irritate the extraction site, delaying healing and increasing discomfort. Stick to water or clear, unsweetened beverages for the first few days.
Do Top Or Bottom Wisdom Teeth Heal Faster?
Mostly, lower wisdom teeth heal slightly faster than upper ones. This is because the upper jawbone is denser, requiring more time for healing.
How Long Until Wisdom Teeth Holes Close?
The holes left by wisdom teeth extraction can take 4-8 weeks to close completely. New bone tissue gradually fills the socket.
Can I Drive After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
No, not immediately. The effects of anesthesia can impair your reaction time and judgment. Wait until the anesthesia wears off completely and you feel alert before driving.
Which Day Of Wisdom Teeth Recovery Is The Worst?
Day 2-3 is the most uncomfortable after wisdom teeth removal. Swelling and pain might peak during this time. Pain medication and cold compresses can help manage these symptoms.
