Wisdom Teeth Extraction Recovery--Affordable Dental Clinics

Wisdom Teeth Extraction Recovery: How Long Does It Take?

Jul 01, 2021

They are referred to as wisdom teeth because they come out later in adulthood, usually between 17 and 15 years. Since the jaw has attained maturity when the teeth come out, the chances of them getting trapped underneath the gums are higher. Impacted wisdom teeth cause pain and increase the risk of infection and weakening of the teeth. Sometimes the pain can be severe and you may need to visit an emergency dentist in 80634.

Some people may not have impacted wisdom teeth because the teeth fit properly in the jaw. However, they still need constant evaluation to ensure they do not cause any dental problems.

Visiting the dentist regularly in early adulthood is vital because the dentist can keep an eye on the wisdom teeth when they are developing. This will also increase the chances of the dentist detecting any problem with the jaw and addressing it on time.

Impacted wisdom teeth may cause problems and also weaken the dental structure. And, that is why our dentist in Greenly CO, recommends an extraction.

Extraction of the wisdom teeth can either be simple or surgical. If the teeth have come out partially above the jaw, the simple extraction may be the most suitable. A surgical extraction is reserved for impacted wisdom teeth.

Our Greenly dentist will first anesthetize the gums to ease the discomfort and may also use dental sedation to keep you calm during the procedure.

What Is the Healing Process?

If surgical extraction is done, you may need stitches and the dentist will remove them in about a week. The recovery and healing process will occur in stages and will be gradual.

  • In the first 24 hours, blood clots in the teeth sockets will develop to facilitate healing
  • Two to three days swelling on the mouth will improve
  • Within seven days, the dentist will remove any stitches that will be left
  • In two weeks, jaw stiffness and soreness will clear out.

You can expect to experience bleeding and throbbing pain after a wisdom teeth extraction. The pain clears out in a day or two, but the dentist will prescribe pain relievers to ease the discomfort.

How Can You Speed Up Healing?

Healing time will differ in everyone, but you can hasten the process with these tips:

1. Protect the blood clot 

Blood clots form in the sockets and will help prevent too much bleeding, protect the wound from infection, and allow new tissues to grow. It is vital to protect the blood clots from breaking, which causes a dry socket and impair the healing process. Avoid brushing the teeth, rinsing the mouth, or drinking hot drinks in the 24 hours following the extraction process.

2. Control gum bleeding and swelling

Bite a gauze pad for 30 minutes to control gum bleeding. It is not advisable to use medications without a dentist’s instruction.

Swelling is also a common occurrence and you can reduce it using ice therapy in the first few hours after the surgery. Place the ice pack on the cheeks of the affected area for 15 minutes to reduce discomfort.

You may not be able to drive or do any heavy activities 48 hours after the surgery and that’s why you are advised to rest.

3. Eat soft foods 

Eating soft foods following the extraction procedure will give the gum a rest and prevent further damage to the teeth. For the first few days following the surgery, avoid chewy, sticky, and spicy foods that may irritate the gums. Also, avoid crunchy foods and nuts that can sticky on the gums and cause discomfort.

After the gums have healed, you can begin reintroducing other foods to your diet.

4. Keep the mouth clean

It is vital to keep the wound clean during the healing process. Try rinsing the mouth with antiseptic to prevent infection or warm water to soothe the gums. It is also advisable to elevate the head when sleeping to help ease the pain.

Final Thoughts

With proper care, wisdom teeth extraction will take around two weeks. Visit Affordable Dental Clinics for instructions on how to care for your gums after the surgery.

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