One of the most common dental procedures is wisdom tooth extraction. However, even if the procedure is familiar, you may require a few weeks to recover fully. People often postpone the extraction of wisdom tooth due to the associated pain and discomfort.
While you may have soreness, swelling, and irritation, this will be minor in comparison to the problematic bacterial infections and bone, nerve, or tissue damage that can develop if these teeth are not removed.
Why Remove Wisdom Tooth?
When a wisdom tooth is partially emerged or malaligned, it can create a difficult-to-clean area under the gum or with the second molar. This tiny space can trap food, allowing germs to thrive. This, in turn, causes gum infections and tooth decay, both of which can harm the second molar.
Furthermore, having wisdom teeth makes brushing and flossing more difficult because molars are situated where regular toothbrushes cannot reach.
Regular check-ups allow our dentists to discover any problems with your wisdom teeth. If required, dentists would advise patients to have wisdom teeth extraction surgery before they become an issue.
Ways To Manage Pain & Discomfort After Wisdom Tooth Removal
Salt Water Rinsing
A salt water rinse at room temperature is a tried-and-tested treatment for any oral condition, from a canker sore to pain after wisdom teeth removal. Gargle with warm salt water to eliminate bacteria in your mouth, prevent infection, and reduce pain.
It also helps to keep your mouth's pH balanced and generates an alkaline environment that inhibits bacterial growth. You should avoid using mouthwash after wisdom teeth extraction since the alcohol can sting the extraction site.
Apply Ice
Wisdom teeth extractions can result in significant swelling and pain. Applying ice packs to the area can help reduce swelling. You can also use a bag of frozen vegetables that have yet to be opened.
You could also wrap ice cubes in a towel and place them in a small plastic bag.
Applying a cold compress to the cheek around the extraction site also helps decrease inflammation and pain. Ensure you leave the ice pack on your face for at most twenty minutes at a time.
Take Painkillers
Taking medications for pain is one of the quickest ways to relieve discomfort caused by the extraction of a wisdom tooth. As the name suggests, these pills are intended to relieve any type of physical discomfort. The dentist can prescribe pain relievers, or you can take painkillers such as ibuprofen. Follow the instructions on the bottle provided by your chemist or dentist.
Get Rest
Last but not least, ensure that you receive plenty of rest! Avoid physical exertion for 36 hours after the treatment to reduce wisdom tooth discomfort. It's recommended that you take at least two-three days off from work to allow yourself to recover. If your job is difficult or requires a lot of talking, taking time off will keep you from creating stress at the extraction site.
How Long Does It Take To Recover?
The recovery time for wisdom tooth extraction varies from person to person. It depends on different factors, such as the number of teeth extracted, the complexity of the procedure, and individual healing abilities.
Generally, it takes about 7-10 days to recover fully from wisdom tooth extraction. During the first few days, you can experience some pain, swelling, and bleeding, but these symptoms should gradually subside.
Practicing post-operative care tips to promote healing and prevent complications is essential. Most people can resume regular activities, such as work, within a few days. Still, avoiding strenuous activities and following the dentist's advice for a full recovery is essential.
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