Post-Operative Care
Wisdom Teeth Removal Recovery
Proper care after wisdom teeth extraction is crucial for optimal healing and preventing complications like dry socket.
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Personalized day-by-day timeline based on your procedure
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Immediate Post-Op Care
First 24 Hours
- •Keep biting on gauze pads for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding
- •Apply ice packs: 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off to minimize swelling
- •Keep head elevated, even while sleeping
- •Take prescribed pain medication before numbness wears off
- •Do NOT rinse, spit, or use straws - this can dislodge blood clots
- •No smoking - this dramatically increases dry socket risk
- •Rest and limit activity
Peak Swelling Period
Days 2-3
- •Swelling peaks around 48-72 hours - this is completely normal
- •Begin gentle warm salt water rinses after 24 hours
- •Continue ice therapy to help with swelling
- •Soft foods only: yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, soup
- •Take all medications as prescribed
- •Very gently brush teeth, carefully avoiding surgical sites
- •Bruising may appear on face and neck - will resolve in 1-2 weeks
Gradual Improvement
Days 4-7
- •Swelling should steadily decrease
- •Jaw stiffness and limited opening is normal
- •Gradually advance diet as comfortable
- •Continue salt water rinses after every meal
- •Dissolvable stitches begin to dissolve
- •Can usually return to work/school
- •Avoid strenuous exercise until day 7
Advanced Healing
Week 2+
- •Most normal activities can resume
- •Sockets continue to heal and fill in
- •Full soft tissue healing: 2-4 weeks
- •Complete bone healing: 3-6 months
- •If non-dissolvable stitches present, removal at follow-up
- •Contact us if any concerns arise