Healing Time After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Tips for Faster Recovery

Removal of your wisdom teeth is one of the most popular dental surgeries across the globe but most patients are taken by surprise by the healing time. Knowing the wisdom tooth removal healing time and how to take care of yourself after it can help a lot in how fast and comfortable your recovery process would be.

What Is the Typical Wisdom Tooth Extraction Healing Time?

The recovery process of wisdom tooth extraction is usually predictable even though it depends on the complexity of the extraction procedure, your age, and your general health.

Days 1-3: This is the most intense period. A blood clot develops in the socket which is essential to heal. Soreness, swelling following wisdom teeth removal, and a little bit of bleeding in the post-surgery period should be expected.

Day 4-7: The swelling and pain start to go away. The socket begins to be covered by the gum tissue.

Week 2: A majority of the patients are much improved. Any stitches (if used) are usually removed or dissolve at this time.

Weeks 3-4: The socket is filled in by new tissue. Most usual activities are resumed.

3-6 months: It takes a longer duration of 3-6 months for the deep bone healing in the socket, but you are not likely to experience any pain at this phase.

Wisdom Tooth Healing Process

The healing process of the wisdom tooth is guided by the natural healing processes of your body. After the removal of a tooth, a blood clot is formed to cushion the underlying bone and nerves. New tissue growth is based on this clot. Disturbing this clot (by drinking with a straw, smoking, or strenuous rinsing) may cause a painful issue known as dry socket, which substantially slows the healing process of wisdom teeth extraction.

Tips to recover faster after wisdom teeth extraction.

The best method of hastening the healing process after the removal of the wisdom teeth is to adhere to the appropriate post wisdom tooth surgery instructions so that complications do not occur:

1.    Limit and reduce physical activity. During the initial 24-48 hours, no strenuous activity should be done as it may raise bleeding and swelling.

2.    Manage swelling strategically. During the first 24 hours, use an ice pack on your cheek every 20 minutes. Then, after 48 hours, change to a warm compress to continue reducing swelling following the removal of wisdom teeth.

3.    Eat soft foods. Stick to yoghurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and smoothies.

4.    Clean the area - delicately. Rinse with warm salt water after meals.

5.    Use prescribed medications. Take pain relievers and any antibiotics recommended by your dentist.

6.    Do not smoke and drink alcohol. Both greatly hamper healing, and raise the chances of dry socket and infection.

7.    Sleep with your head raised. To reduce swelling and pain, the initial two nights should be propped with your head up.

Conclusion

The correct guidance and support during the entire recovery process are the first steps to a smooth wisdom tooth extraction. At the Springvale Dental Clinic, our friendly staff will give you comprehensive pre- and post-extraction guidelines, making sure that you are well aware of all the steps of the wisdom tooth recovery process. Through your first visit up to your subsequent visits, we are right there with you. Make an appointment with us and enjoy dental care where your comfort and recovery are the top priorities.