Wisdom Teeth Extraction

• Soft Tissue Impaction: There is not enough room to allow the gum tissue to retract for adequate cleaning of the tooth.
• Partial Bony Impaction: There is enough space to allow the wisdom tooth to partially erupt. However, the tooth cannot function properly in the chewing process, which creates cleaning problems, among others.
• Complete Bony Impaction: There is no space for the tooth to erupt. It remains embedded in the jaw bone or, if even partially visible, requires complex surgical techniques for removal. The impacted wisdom tooth may also be in an unusual position and difficult to remove. This situation can also arise when the shape or size of the jaw bone and other facial structures make the removal of this tooth significantly more complex.

• Immediately After Surgery:
• Keep gauze in place for 30 minutes, then discard.
• Avoid mouth rinsing or touching the wound to prevent bleeding.
• Begin pain medication when discomfort starts.
• Limit activities; resume normalcy when comfortable.
• Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Bleeding:
• Expected to some degree; control excessive bleeding by biting on gauze or a moist tea bag.
• Stay calm, upright, and avoid exercise.
• Swelling:
• Normal and proportionate to surgery.
• Use ice packs immediately for the first 36 hours, then moist heat to reduce swelling.
• Pain Management:
• Tylenol or Ibuprofen for moderate pain.
• Take prescribed medication for severe pain; avoid driving or machinery.
• Diet:
• Start with liquids; avoid straws.
• Eat soft foods and maintain high calorie and high protein intake.
• Stay hydrated; aim for 5-6 glasses of liquids daily.
• Oral Hygiene:
• No rinsing until the day after surgery.
• Gently brush teeth; salt water rinses after eating.
• Antibiotics and Other Medications:
• Take as directed; stop if adverse reactions occur.
• Nausea/Vomiting:
• Sip coke, tea, or ginger ale after an hour; then resume normal diet.
• Potential Complications:
• Numbness, slight fever, dizziness, mouth projections, dry/cracked lips, sore throat, and jaw stiffness should be normal but monitored.
• Follow specific instructions for activity, eating, and medication.
• Aftercare Specifics:
• Sutures help healing; removal is painless.
• Pain and swelling should decrease each day; contact the office if it worsens.
• Keep the tooth cavity clean; brush gently, and use salt water rinses.
• Be cautious with exercise; reduced nourishment intake may affect stamina.

For a day-by-day recovery timeline, food ideas, and a sample menu, see our Wisdom Teeth Recovery & Diet Guide.