Although it’s a common and routine dental procedure, getting your wisdom teeth removed is still considered surgery. Since it’s a surgical procedure, it requires a full recovery. Here are a few tips for successful healing.

How to Care for Your Mouth After Removing Your Wisdom Teeth

1. Keep Your Mouth Clean

Gently rinse your mouth with warm saltwater in the morning and night and after every time you eat. This habit will prevent food debris from getting clogged in the open cavity. The rinse will also deter bacteria from forming around the extraction site, which could cause infection.

2. Stick to Liquids & Soft Foods

Your dentist will likely recommend that you stick to a liquid diet for at least 24 hours after your procedure. Avoid drinking from straws, as they can loosen blood clots, irritate the extraction site, and dry out the socket. After a day, eat soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, smoothies, macaroni and cheese, and bananas.

3. Get Plenty of Rest

After the procedure, take one to two days off from work and get plenty of sleep so that your body can recover from the experience. Additionally, avoid strenuous exercise or physical activity for at least two days following the extraction.

4. Ice Your Jaw

During the first few days of recovery, apply an ice pack along your jawline for intermittent periods of 20 minutes. In addition to easing pain, the ice will reduce blood flow and minimize swelling.

5. Exercise Your Mouth

Your mouth will feel stiff for a few days after the procedure, and you may not want to move it. However, you need to exercise your jaw muscles so that the stiffness doesn’t become permanent. Open and close your mouth slowly a few times each day, and if needed, gently stretch your teeth apart with your fingers.

If it’s time to remove your wisdom teeth, contact the skilled team at Zen Dental Hawaii in Honolulu. This locally owned practice offers a range of general and cosmetic dental treatments, including routine cleanings, tooth extractions, and root canals. Learn more about their oral surgery procedures online, or call (808) 532-5888 to schedule an appointment.