7 days after wisdom tooth extraction

 

7 Days

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Are you scheduled to have a wisdom tooth extraction soon? Or have you just had one? If yes, then you might be wondering what to expect in the coming days. A wisdom tooth extraction can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but proper aftercare can help ease the pain and speed up the healing process. In this article, we will guide you through the 7 days after wisdom tooth extraction and provide you with all the necessary information to ensure a smooth recovery.

Introduction

A wisdom tooth extraction is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or more wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth are the last molars that grow at the back of the mouth, and they usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 25. In most cases, wisdom teeth cause no problems, but in some cases, they can become impacted or infected, leading to pain and discomfort.

After a wisdom tooth extraction, the recovery process can take up to two weeks. The first 7 days are crucial for proper healing, and it's essential to take care of your mouth during this time.

Here's what you can expect in the 7 days after wisdom tooth extraction:

Day 1: The Day of the Extraction

The first day after the extraction is usually the most uncomfortable. You may experience some swelling, bleeding, and pain in the extraction site. Here's what you can do to manage the pain:

• Apply an ice pack to your cheek for 20 minutes at a time.
• Take the pain medication prescribed by your dentist or surgeon.
• Bite down on a piece of gauze to help stop the bleeding.

It's essential to rest and avoid any strenuous activities for the first 24 hours after the extraction.

Day 2-3: Swelling and Discomfort

Swelling and discomfort are common in the 2-3 days following the extraction. Here's what you can do to manage the symptoms:

• Continue to apply ice packs to your cheek for 20 minutes at a time.
• Take the pain medication prescribed by your dentist or surgeon.
• Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help reduce swelling.

You can also start eating soft foods like soup, yogurt, and applesauce, but avoid crunchy or hard foods that can irritate the extraction site.

Day 4-5: Bruising and Stiffness

Bruising and stiffness may occur in the 4-5 days following the extraction. Here's what you can do to manage the symptoms:

• Apply a warm compress to your cheek for 20 minutes at a time to help reduce bruising and stiffness.
• Take the pain medication prescribed by your dentist or surgeon.
• Continue to eat soft foods.

Day 6-7: Healing and Recovery

By the 6th and 7th day, the extraction site should start to heal and close up. Here's what you can do to ensure proper healing and recovery:

• Continue to eat soft foods.
• Avoid using a straw or smoking, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
• Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to help keep the extraction site clean.

It's essential to follow all the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or surgeon to ensure proper healing.

FAQs

1. How long does it take for the hole to close after a wisdom tooth extraction?

It can take up to two weeks for the hole to close after a wisdom tooth extraction. The time frame can vary depending on the individual's healing process and the complexity of the extraction.

2. How long should I wait to smoke after a wisdom tooth extraction?

It's best to wait at least 72 hours before smoking after a wisdom tooth extraction. Smoking

3. Can I brush my teeth after a wisdom tooth extraction? 

You should avoid brushing your teeth in the extraction area for the first 24 hours after the procedure. After that, you can gently brush your teeth, avoiding the extraction site. You can also rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water.

 4. When can I eat solid food after a wisdom tooth extraction? 

You can start eating solid food again once the extraction site has healed and closed up, usually around the 7th day after the procedure. Until then, stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, and applesauce. 

5. What should I do if I experience severe pain or bleeding after a wisdom tooth extraction?

 If you experience severe pain or bleeding after a wisdom tooth extraction, you should contact your dentist or surgeon immediately. They may prescribe additional pain medication or recommend additional treatment to manage the symptoms.

 6. Can I exercise after a wisdom tooth extraction?

 You should avoid any strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours after the procedure. After that, you can slowly resume light exercise, but avoid any activities that can increase blood pressure or cause strain on the extraction site.

Conclusion 

A wisdom tooth extraction can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but proper aftercare can help ease the pain and speed up the healing process. The first 7 days after the procedure are crucial for proper healing, and it's essential to follow all the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or surgeon. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or any other unusual symptoms, contact your dentist or surgeon immediately.

 By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth recovery and return to your daily activities as soon as possible.