Wisdom Teeth Removal Aftercare: What to Do and What to Avoid

Following wisdom teeth extraction, proper aftercare is essential for a smooth and successful recovery. Managing pain, maintaining oral hygiene, and adhering to specific guidelines can help avoid complications. Below is a comprehensive guide on what to do—and what to avoid—after surgery to ensure optimal healing.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Maintaining oral hygiene is critical for preventing infections and promoting healing. Here’s a simple routine you can follow:

What to Do:

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently clean your teeth, avoiding the extraction sites.
• Rinse with warm saltwater (½ teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water) 3-4 times daily to reduce inflammation and keep the area clean.
• Brush twice daily and floss as usual, but steer clear of the surgical site.

What to Avoid:

• Avoid using mouthwash with alcohol, as it may irritate the wound.
• Don’t brush directly on or around the extraction area for the first few days.

Table: Oral Hygiene Routine Post-Wisdom Teeth Removal

Step	Frequency	Details
Soft-bristled brushing	Twice a day	Avoid brushing near the extraction area.
Saltwater rinses	3-4 times/day	Use warm saltwater for rinsing.
Avoid alcohol mouthwash	–	Can cause irritation and slow healing.

Managing Pain and Swelling

Post-operative pain and swelling are common, but manageable with proper care.

What to Do:

• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief (e.g. ibuprofen) as directed by your dentist.
• Apply an ice pack to your cheek in 15-minute intervals during the first 24 hours.
• Rest with your head elevated to reduce swelling.

What to Avoid:

• Avoid heat packs in the first 48 hours, as heat may increase swelling.
• Refrain from excessive talking or jaw movement during the first few days.

List: Pain and Swelling Management Tips

1. Take prescribed pain medication.
2. Use ice packs on the affected area.
3. Rest with your head elevated.
4. Avoid heat packs or excessive movement.

Eating and Drinking Guidelines

Eating the right foods after wisdom teeth removal can speed up recovery and prevent complications.

What to Do:

• Stick to soft, nutrient-rich foods such as mashed potatoes, yoghurt, smoothies, and soups.
• Stay hydrated by drinking water, which helps flush out bacteria and debris.
• Rinse your mouth gently with saltwater after meals to keep the area clean.

What to Avoid:

• Avoid hot drinks like coffee or tea in the first 48 hours, as they can increase swelling.
• Do not use straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot, causing a painful condition known as dry socket.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods for at least a week.

Table: Foods to Eat and Avoid Post-Wisdom Teeth Removal

Food to Eat	Food to Avoid
Mashed potatoes, yoghurt	Spicy or crunchy foods
Smoothies (without a straw)	Hard foods (nuts, chips, etc.)
Soups (not hot)	Hot drinks (tea, coffee)

Activities to Avoid

Certain activities can delay healing or lead to complications like dry socket or infection.

What to Avoid:

• Strenuous Activities: Avoid heavy exercise or lifting for at least 72 hours.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking or drinking alcohol can interfere with healing and increase the risk of infection.
• Straws and Spitting: The suction from using a straw or spitting too forcefully can dislodge the blood clot.

List: Activities to Avoid After Surgery

1. Strenuous exercise for 72 hours.
2. Smoking or alcohol consumption.
3. Using straws or excessive spitting.

Key Takeaways

Proper aftercare following wisdom tooth removal is essential for a smooth recovery. Here’s a quick recap:

• Maintain good oral hygiene with gentle brushing and saltwater rinses.
• Manage pain and swelling with prescribed medication, ice packs, and elevation.
• Stick to soft foods and stay hydrated, avoiding hot, spicy, or crunchy foods.
• Avoid strenuous activities, smoking, alcohol, and using straws.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a quick and smooth recovery. If you have any concerns during your healing process, reach out to your dentist in Hawthorn for professional advice. For more guidance, contact Gentle Dental Hawthorn, located at 781 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn VIC.