Wisdom teeth are a third set of back molars that typically come in between the ages of 17 and 21. Often, people do not have adequate space in their jaws to accommodate the additional teeth without causing their other teeth from shifting. This can cause a host of problems and as such, wisdom teeth are typically extracted (removed).
People that are evaluating wisdom tooth extraction often want to know what the recovery process looks like and when they will be able to resume normal activities. This article will examine what to expect while recovering from wisdom tooth extraction as well as activities, such as smoking, that should be avoided.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Process
Extracting wisdom teeth is a common procedure and depending on the patient’s specific case, recovery typically takes about a week. However, should the wisdom teeth come in at the wrong angle or be impacted in the gums or jawbone, recovering from their removal could take longer. Following extraction, some swelling and discomfort are expected but should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medications.
Because it can take several months for the surgical wound to completely heal, an infection can develop weeks after surgery. As such, patients should monitor their situation and pay close attention to any issues or symptoms that develop. Certain complications could signal an infection or nerve damage. Patients should seek help if any of the following symptoms are experienced:
* Trouble breathing or swallowing
* A fever
* Pain that cannot be managed with medication
* Swelling that gets progressively worse
* Numbness
* Pus or blood discharge
Activities to Avoid Following Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Given that it can take weeks or months to fully heal, there are certain activities to avoid while recovering from wisdom tooth extraction.
* Certain Foods and Drinks: While it is important to eat well and remain hydrated in recovery, it is important to stick to a diet that will not affect stitches or blood clots. Hard, hot, tough, or crunchy foods should be avoided in favor of softer foods like pudding, cottage cheese, smoothies, or mashed potatoes.
* Smoking: Not only is the smoke itself harmful, but the sucking action also employed when smoking can dislodge blood clots and send healing back to day one. Bleeding will resume and a dry socket can develop. If smoking must be resumed, patients should wait a minimum of 72 hours following extraction. However, smoking can still lead to infections and lengthen the recovery process.
* Strenuous Physical Activity: Physical activity is vital to maintaining sound overall health but following wisdom tooth extraction, it should be kept to a minimum since it elevates the heart rate and could exacerbate bleeding. Patients should discuss with their dentist when it is safe to resume their exercise regimen following extraction.
* Anything Else That Could Dislodge Blood Clot or Stitches: Allowing blood clots to properly form after tooth extraction is critical to the healing process. As such, avoiding things that could disrupt or dislodge clots such as spitting or using a straw to drink is advised during the initial week following extraction.