After Extraction of Wisdom Teeth
What to Expect After Your Wisdom Tooth Surgery
In most cases, the removal of wisdom teeth is performed under local anesthesia, laughing gas (nitrous oxide/oxygen analgesia), or general anesthesia. These options, as well as the surgical risks (such as sensory nerve damage or sinus complications), will be discussed with you before the procedure is performed. Once the teeth are removed, the gum is sutured. To help control bleeding, bite down on the gauze placed in your mouth. You will rest under our supervision in the office until you are ready to be taken home.
Upon discharge, your postoperative kit will include detailed instructions, pain medication, antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment for suture removal. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us.
Our services are provided in an environment of optimum safety. We utilize modern monitoring equipment, and our staff is experienced in anesthesia techniques.
Upon discharge, your postoperative kit will include detailed instructions, pain medication, antibiotics, and a follow-up appointment for suture removal. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call us.
Our services are provided in an environment of optimum safety. We utilize modern monitoring equipment, and our staff is experienced in anesthesia techniques.
What Will I Feel Like After Surgery?
On the first day after wisdom teeth removal surgery, you may experience minor bleeding and pain. It’s advised to cover your pillowcase to avoid stains. Each person reacts differently, and pain levels vary from mild to severe. Swelling is expected and often peaks on day two, with improvement beginning by day three.
Use ice for the entire first day to reduce swelling. Even if it feels uncomfortable, applying cold is important. On the third day, your jaw may feel stiff and hard to open — applying moist heat on days two and three can help relax your muscles.
You should limit activity for a few days and follow all post-operative instructions closely. Most patients feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days and can return to regular activities soon after.
Use ice for the entire first day to reduce swelling. Even if it feels uncomfortable, applying cold is important. On the third day, your jaw may feel stiff and hard to open — applying moist heat on days two and three can help relax your muscles.
You should limit activity for a few days and follow all post-operative instructions closely. Most patients feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days and can return to regular activities soon after.
Are There Any Complications?
As with any surgery, complications can occur. Common issues after wisdom teeth extraction may include:- Damage to Sensory Nerve: A nerve in the lower jaw supplies feeling to the lip, chin, and tongue and is sometimes near the wisdom teeth roots. If it’s disturbed during surgery, you may feel tingling or numbness — usually temporary but rarely permanent.
- Sinus Communication: Upper wisdom teeth may be near your sinuses. If an opening occurs, it often closes on its own. You may be advised not to blow your nose or sneeze forcefully. Rarely, another procedure may be needed to close the connection.
- Dry Socket: This is the most common complication. It happens when the blood clot is lost prematurely from the socket, causing deep, dull pain. Smokers and those on birth control pills are more at risk. Pain relief may involve dressing the socket for a few days until healed.
- Infection: Infections may require antibiotics or in-office drainage. Temporary discomforts like jaw stiffness, lip irritation, bruising, or oozing may also occur. Your post-op instructions will address these, but feel free to call if concerns arise.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help you recover smoothly. Please reach out with any concerns, and don’t hesitate to contact our office if you experience anything unexpected during your healing process.
Want To Know More?
Call us for more information!