Wisdom teeth removal surgery is an oral surgery procedure where the third molars — more commonly called wisdom teeth — are removed. There are many reasons why you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed. Your dentist and Northwest Oral Surgery will be your best source of information about your individual case. Whatever the reason for removal, here are tips to help with your recovery from wisdom teeth removal surgery.

Plan to Have Someone to Accompany You

After your wisdom teeth surgery is over, you’ll feel groggy from the anesthesia. You will need a parent or caregiver to accompany you on your surgery day because you certainly won’t be able to drive yourself home. The surgeon and surgical assistants will also give important post-op instructions to your caregiver because it’s unlikely you will be able to recall the instructions or care for yourself adequately for at least a day or two after surgery.

Be Ready to Take Time Off Work or School

You’ll also need to plan to take some time off from work or school following your wisdom teeth surgery. Even when the initial swelling and other symptoms are alleviated, you probably won’t feel quite up to resuming your regular schedule for several days following your wisdom teeth surgery.  Each patient recovers differently, but it's better to take more time to recover than less time.

Shop Ahead

After your wisdom teeth surgery, you won’t be able to eat regular food for several days. Your gums and mouth will be tender. To avoid having to send your caregiver out to do grocery shopping, plan ahead and shop before your wisdom teeth surgery. Stock up on items like soup or broth, ice cream, popsicles, applesauce, mashed potatoes and other soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing.

Maintain Your Medication Schedule

The discomfort following your wisdom teeth surgery can be moderate to intense depending on your individual pain threshold. To avoid long periods of discomfort, manage your pain by adhering as closely as possible to the medication schedule provided by your doctor.

Rinse With Saltwater Solution

A mild saltwater solution makes a good mouth rinse. The saline will help healing, minimize swelling and reduce pain. It will also help to keep your mouth free of food debris and bacteria buildup.  A good saltwater solution is 1/2 teaspoon of salt to one cup of warm water. 

Call Northwest Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

If you have any concerns about your post-op progress, call your oral surgeon.  Reasons to call your surgeon include extreme pain, excessive bleeding, the possibility of a dry socket or development of a fever.  

There’s no doubt that wisdom teeth surgery is a serious procedure. However, by following these tips, you can recuperate as comfortably as possible.  For more information contact us today, or visit www.texasoralsurgery.com.