Post Op Recovery

Do’s and Don’ts after Wisdom Teeth Extraction 

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common dental procedure that is performed when the wisdom teeth become impacted or cause pain or discomfort. After the procedure, it’s essential to follow a strict set of post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. The following article will cover the do’s and don’ts of wisdom teeth extraction recovery at Studio Smiles.

Healing Stages of a Tooth Hole

The healing process of a tooth extraction site involves several stages, including:

  • The Initial Stage (Days 1-3): During the first few days after the tooth extraction procedure, it’s normal to experience swelling, discomfort, and bleeding. It’s important to keep the gauze placed over the extraction site in place to control bleeding and help form a blood clot.
  • The Early Healing Stage (Days 3-7): During this stage, the swelling and discomfort will start to subside, and the blood clot will start to harden. It’s important to avoid activities that can disrupt the blood clot, such as smoking or using a straw.
  • The Maturation Stage (Days 7-14): During this stage, the extraction site will start to heal, and the blood clot will start to be replaced by new tissue. The healing process is well underway, and you can start to gradually resume normal activities.
  • The Late Healing Stage (2-3 Weeks): During this stage, the tooth extraction healing process is complete, and the extraction site will have fully healed.

How long after wisdom teeth removal are you fully healed?

It’s important to remember that full healing after wisdom teeth extraction can take several weeks. Some people may experience lingering discomfort or tenderness in the extraction site, but this should resolve within a few weeks. In some cases, it may take up to several months for the extraction site to fully heal, but this is normal.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Homecare Instructions

It’s essential to follow a strict set of Post-Operative Instructions Wisdom teeth removal to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Some of the key home care instructions include:

  • Rest: It’s important to rest after the wisdom teeth extraction procedure and limit physical activity for the first few days.
  • Ice: To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to the cheek near the extraction site for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for the first 24-48 hours after the procedure.
  • Oral Hygiene: It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene after the wisdom teeth removal procedure to prevent infection and promote healing. Brush your teeth gently and avoid the extraction site. Rinse your mouth with salt water after meals to keep the extraction site clean.
  • Avoid Straws: It’s important to avoid using straws for the first few days after the wisdom teeth removal procedure as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
  • Avoid Straws: It’s important to avoid using straws for the first few days after the wisdom teeth removal procedure as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction Homecare Instructions

Most people will experience some degree of discomfort after wisdom teeth extraction, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. In some cases, your dentist may prescribe stronger pain medication to manage your discomfort.

What You Can Expect

How to sleep after wisdom teeth extraction

Sleeping after wisdom teeth extraction is important for proper healing and reducing the risk of complications. Here are some tips for getting a good night’s sleep after your surgery

  • Elevate your head: Keeping your head elevated can reduce swelling and promote better circulation. Use pillows to prop yourself up or sleep in a recliner.
  • Avoid lying flat: Sleeping flat on your back can put pressure on the extraction site and disrupt the healing process. Instead, sleep on your side with a pillow to support your head and neck.
  • Avoid straws and smoking: Sucking through a straw or smoking can create suction and dislodge the blood clot that forms at the extraction site. This can lead to a condition called dry socket, which is painful and prolongs healing.
  • Stay away from alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can interfere with the healing process and disrupt your sleep, so it’s best to avoid them for at least 24 hours after your surgery.
  • Use ice packs: Applying an ice pack to the side of your face where your wisdom tooth was extracted can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Wrap a bag of ice in a cloth and apply it to your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time.
  • Take pain medication as directed: If you are prescribed pain medication, take it as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon to reduce discomfort and promote better sleep.

By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery after your wisdom teeth extraction. If you experience any unusual pain, swelling, or bleeding, be sure to contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away.


Foods to Eat After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
  • Soft Foods: After wisdom teeth extraction, it’s important to avoid crunchy or chewy foods that can put pressure on the extraction site and disrupt the healing process. Soft foods like yogurt, smoothies, applesauce, pudding, scrambled eggs, and mashed potatoes can provide the necessary nutrition and hydration while being gentle on the extraction site.
  • Liquid Foods: Consuming liquids like broths, soups, juice, and milk can also help with recovery and hydration. Liquid foods can also help in reducing swelling and discomfort in the mouth.
  • Nutrient-rich Foods: Incorporating nutrient-rich foods in your diet such as leafy greens, lean proteins, and fruits can provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals that support the healing process.
Foods to Avoid After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
  • Hard or Sticky Foods: Hard foods like nuts, popcorn, and ice can put pressure on the extraction site and cause discomfort or damage. Sticky foods like candy or gum can also get stuck in the extraction site, making it difficult to clean and increasing the risk of infection.
  • Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can irritate the extraction site and cause discomfort, making it important to avoid them during the healing process.
  • Alcohol and Tobacco: Alcohol and tobacco use can increase the risk of bleeding and slow down the healing process. It’s best to avoid these substances for the first few days after wisdom teeth extraction.
  • Foods High in Sugar Foods high in sugar can interfere with the healing process by increasing inflammation and potentially leading to infection.

It’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s healing process is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have any concerns about what to eat after your wisdom teeth extraction, consult your oral surgeon or dentist for personalised advice.

It’s important to monitor your recovery after wisdom teeth extraction, and to be mindful of any pain, bleeding, or discomfort that you may experience. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to contact the expert team at Wisdom Clinics Australia right away. We will be able to assess your situation and provide guidance and support to help ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery. 

In order to minimise any discomfort or complications during the healing process, it’s important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by the clinic and to avoid any activities or behaviours that may slow down or interfere with your recovery. This may include avoiding alcohol, smoking, and certain foods, as well as getting adequate rest and keeping your extraction site clean and dry.

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort, the team at Wisdom Clinics Australia may recommend over the counter or prescription pain medication to help manage your symptoms. In some cases, they may also recommend a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your post-operative care plan.

Regardless of your specific situation, the goal of the team at Wisdom Clinics Australia is to help you achieve a fast, smooth, and comfortable recovery following your wisdom teeth extraction. We are available to answer your questions and provide support throughout your journey to better oral health.

The Wisdom Difference

Removing your wisdom teeth is easy with Studio Smiles.

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Fixed transparent fees.
$1500 for all 4 wisdom teeth removed*

Confusing and hidden costs.
$2200 average fee*

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1 visit surgery.
All consultations and post-op checks done over telehealth.

3 visit surgery - Travel back and forth multiple times having to wait in the waiting room for every appointment.

Consultation within 24 hours guaranteed.

Wait weeks for your appointment.

Post-op care pack included with everything you need from medications through to soft snacks.

Pay additional fees for medications and receive no post-op care.

24/7 Support via Online Chat and SMS.

Call during business hours only

*Final cost will depend on Medicare rebate which will be calculated at time of your consultation.

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