What are the Restrictions After Wisdom Teeth Removal? – A Complete Guide

Just got your wisdom teeth removed? Now comes the part where you need to be wise about your recovery!

While the procedure itself is quick, the healing process requires extra care and attention. Knowing “What are the restrictions after wisdom teeth removal?” and how long you need to follow them can make all the difference between a smooth recovery and potential complications like infection or dry socket. 

Whether it’s skipping that favorite crunchy snack or holding off on strenuous activities, these restrictions are in place to protect you and ensure proper healing. 

Let’s dive into the restrictions you need to observe after wisdom teeth removal so you can get back to feeling your best as soon as possible!

Bleeding 

It's completely normal to experience light bleeding or oozing from the socket for up to 24 hours. To control it:

• Bite down on damp gauze for an hour after the procedure.
• Replace the gauze every 20 minutes if needed.
• Keep your head elevated with pillows—lying flat can increase bleeding.
• Take it easy and limit physical activity for the first 2-3 days.

Swelling

Swelling is a natural part of healing, peaking 2-3 days after surgery and gradually subsiding over the next few days. Apply ice packs immediately over the swollen area for 20 minutes on, and 20 minutes off during the first day.

Postoperative Discomfort

Once the anesthesia wears off, it's completely normal to feel some discomfort after tooth extraction. While your prescribed pain medication will help manage the pain, it may not completely eliminate it. Remember, do not drive or operate heavy machinery while on pain meds, as they can cause drowsiness.

Infection 

Though rare, infections can develop after surgery. If your procedure carries a higher risk, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Be sure to finish all prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection. 

Sutures 

Depending on your procedure, your dentist may place stitches to aid in healing. If dissolvable sutures were used, they should disappear within 1-7 days. Non-dissolvable sutures typically need to be removed within 7-10 days, although some are left in place for up to three weeks. Your dentist will guide you on this after the procedure.

Additional Instructions  

If you’ve undergone IV sedation or general anesthesia during your procedure, it’s important to take it easy and rest at home, engaging only in light activities as your body allows.

For the first 24 hours after anesthesia:

• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery and power tools.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol, including beer.
• Steer clear of any moderate or high-intensity physical activities, such as running or weightlifting.

• Avoid brushing near the extraction site for the first 24 hours to protect the healing area.
• Do not use mouthwash or any alcohol-based rinses for the first few days, as they can irritate the wound.
• Refrain from vigorous rinsing for at least 48 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
• Don’t use a straw for drinking, as the suction can cause a dry socket.
• Skip flossing around the extraction area until it’s fully healed.
• Avoid using water picks or other devices that apply pressure to the mouth.
• Don’t smoke or chew tobacco, as it can delay healing and increase the risk of complications.
• Stick to a soft-bristle toothbrush and gently clean other areas of your mouth starting 24 hours after surgery.

• Stick to soft foods: Opt for yogurt, mashed potatoes, applesauce, and smoothies.
• Avoid hard, crunchy foods: Steer clear of nuts, chips, and popcorn, which can irritate the extraction site.
• Refrain from sticky foods: Avoid caramel, gum, and other sticky substances that can get lodged in the extraction area.
• Skip spicy foods: Hot and spicy foods can cause irritation and discomfort around the extraction area.
• Stay away from acidic foods: Citrus fruits and tomatoes may irritate the healing tissues near the site. 
• No hot beverages: Avoid drinking hot coffee, tea, or soup for the first few days to prevent discomfort and potential burns.
• Avoid using a straw: Suction can disrupt the healing blood clot and cause dry socket.
• Limit sugary foods: Sugary foods and drinks can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of infection.
• Do not consume alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with healing and interact negatively with any prescribed medications.
• Avoid chewy foods: Foods like steak or tough meats can be difficult to chew and might disrupt the healing area.

After wisdom teeth removal, it's important to monitor your recovery and consult your dentist if you experience any of the following complications:

• If bleeding continues beyond 24 hours or is unusually heavy, it may indicate an issue.
• Intense or worsening pain that doesn't improve with prescribed medication could be a sign of complications.
• Symptoms such as persistent swelling, redness, fever, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth may indicate an infection.
• If your blood clot has dislodged from the socket, it could lead to a dry socket, causing severe pain and exposure of the bone. Consult your dentist immediately if you experience the same. 
• A high fever can be a sign of infection or other complications.
• Swelling that worsens after a few days or doesn’t start to go down may be problematic.
• If you experience significant difficulty opening your mouth or if your jaw feels unusually tight, it could be a sign of a complication.
• Persistent numbness or tingling in the lip, tongue, or chin may indicate nerve damage.
• An unusual or foul smell or taste in your mouth could signal an infection or a problem with the healing process.
• If sutures come loose or cause discomfort, they may need to be adjusted or removed by your dentist.

The key to a smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal lies in carefully adhering to these restrictions. By avoiding vigorous rinsing, smoking, and hard or sticky foods, and by managing your pain and swelling appropriately, you set yourself up for a quicker and more comfortable healing process.

Remember, while the post-op restrictions may seem extensive, they aim to ensure your mouth heals properly and complications are kept at bay.

Ready for a hassle-free recovery after your wisdom teeth removal? 

Contact Legacy Dental, and let us help you smile with confidence! Book your consultation today.