Dental health

Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Essential Care

Extracting wisdom teeth is a common procedure, but in order to heal quickly and avoid complications, careful care is essential. Here is a practical guide to optimal recovery.

Immediate care after surgery

  • Stop the bleeding : After extraction, bite on a sterile compress for 30-60 minutes to form a blood clot. This clot is essential to avoid dry alveolitis, a painful complication due to the premature disintegration of the clot.
  • Apply cold : Place an ice pack wrapped in a cloth on your cheek for 20 minutes, with 10-minute breaks. This reduces swelling, which peaks between 24 and 48 hours after surgery.

Food adapted for healing

  • Early days : Choose soft and cold foods such as compotes, warm soups or yogurts. Avoid crunchy, hot, or spicy foods, which can irritate the wound.
  • Hydration : Drink lots of water to stay hydrated, but avoid straws. Aspiration may interfere with clot formation.
  • Progression : After a few days, reintroduce semi-solid foods like scrambled eggs or purees. Maintain a balanced diet to promote healing.

Careful oral hygiene

  • Brushing teeth : Wait 24 hours before brushing your teeth. Then use a soft brush and avoid the operated area so as not to disturb the clot.
  • Rinses : Avoid mouthwashes in the first 24 hours. Afterwards, rinse gently with lukewarm saline (a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) to reduce the risk of infection.

Managing Pain and Swelling

  • Painkillers : Take prescribed medications or anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce swelling. Never combine medications without advice from your dentist or pharmacist.
  • Rest : Limit physical effort for the first 48 hours. Sleep with your head slightly elevated to reduce fluid accumulation in the operated area.

Signs to look out for

  • Persistent or worsening pain : If the pain increases after 48 hours, this may indicate dry alveolitis. See your dentist immediately.
  • Heavy bleeding : If excessive bleeding persists despite applying compresses, contact a professional.
  • Infection : Watch for signs such as prolonged swelling, fever, or bad breath, which may indicate an infection that requires treatment.

Tips for a successful recovery

  • Avoid smoking : Cigarettes delay healing and increase the risk of dry alveolitis.
  • Listen to your body : If you experience unusual discomfort or alarming symptoms, do not wait to consult.

The key to a successful recovery after wisdom tooth extraction is careful care and good hygiene. Follow these steps, stay alert for signs of complications and take care of yourself for a peaceful recovery. In case of doubt, never hesitate to contact your dentist for advice adapted to your situation.

Ecrit par
La Rive team
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