What to Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, it is crucial to follow proper aftercare guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications.
Some helpful tips can be found on Reddit threads discussing the subject, with advice from both professionals and people who have experienced the procedure first-hand.
Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure in which one or more of the third molars (wisdom teeth) are removed due to pain, infection, or impaction.
Taking care of the extraction site and managing pain and swelling are essential for a successful recovery.
Recovering from a wisdom tooth extraction may seem daunting, but following these steps suggested on Reddit and listening to the advice of your dental professional should ensure a smooth healing process.
Prioritize taking it easy, managing pain, eating wisely, and maintaining oral hygiene to prevent complications and promote a speedy recovery.
9 Types of Timeframe: What To Do After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
| Timeframe | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 hours | Rest | After the extraction, relax and rest for a couple of hours. Avoid any strenuous activities and keep your head elevated. |
| 2-24 hours | Ice Pack | Apply an ice pack to the area for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to reduce swelling and discomfort. |
| 0-48 hours | Pain Management | Take prescribed pain relief medication as recommended by your dentist or oral surgeon. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen can also be taken if approved by your dental professional. |
| 0-48 hours | Bleeding Control | Gently bite down on the gauze pad placed by your dentist to help stop the bleeding, and change the gauze as needed. If bleeding continues after 24 hours, contact your dentist. |
| 0-7 days | Diet | Stick to a soft food diet, avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Slowly transition back to your normal diet as tolerated. |
| 0-7 days | Hygiene | Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for 24 hours. After this period, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to promote healing and keep the area clean. |
| 0-7 days | Smoking & Alcohol | Refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol, as these can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. |
| 7-14 days | Stitches Removal | If you have non-dissolvable stitches, schedule an appointment with your dentist or oral surgeon for their removal. |
| 1-3 months | Follow-up | Attend follow-up appointments, as needed, for your dentist or oral surgeon to monitor your healing process and ensure proper recovery. |
What To Expect After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, you can expect some common symptoms and experiences as shared by Reddit users.
It is crucial to follow your dentist’s post-extraction care instructions in order to heal properly and prevent complications.
Below are some points to keep in mind:
- Pain and discomfort: It’s normal to feel some pain and discomfort for a few days following the extraction. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage the pain.
- Swelling: You may experience swelling in the extraction area. Applying ice packs can minimize it.
- Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected, but should gradually decrease. Bite down gently on gauze to control bleeding.
- Limited diet: Stick to soft foods initially and gradually reintroduce solid foods as healing progresses.
- Oral hygiene: Maintain proper oral hygiene while avoiding the extraction site to prevent infection.
- Rest: Ensure ample rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
Remember, everyone’s experience may differ, so communicating with your dentist is crucial for a smooth healing process.
What Painkillers Are Recommended After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, it’s crucial to manage pain and discomfort effectively.
Reddit users often recommend the following painkillers:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: Ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) and acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) are popular options. These can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
- Prescription painkillers: In some cases, your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe a stronger painkiller like hydrocodone or codeine. Use these as directed to manage severe pain.
Pro Tips:
- Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for dosage and frequency.
- Avoid taking aspirin, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Ice packs and gentle head elevation can also help to reduce pain and swelling after the extraction.
Remember, everyone’s pain tolerance is different, so finding the most effective pain relief after a wisdom tooth extraction may be a matter of trial and error.
Consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or if the pain persists.
How Long Does Swelling Last After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, swelling typically lasts for 48 to 72 hours but can extend up to a week in some cases.
To reduce swelling and promote a faster recovery, follow these tips:
- Apply ice packs to the affected area periodically for the first 48 hours
- Keep your head elevated when resting, to minimize blood pooling
- Take anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon
- Maintain good oral hygiene and gently rinse your mouth with salt water after 24 hours
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least a week
- Consume a soft food diet and avoid hot or spicy foods
Remember that everyone’s recovery time varies, so it’s important to follow your dentist’s specific instructions and monitor your healing progress.
How To Manage Bleeding After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
Managing to bleed after a wisdom tooth extraction is crucial for proper healing and preventing complications.
To control bleeding effectively, consider these helpful tips from Reddit users:
- Apply pressure: Gently bite down on a piece of clean gauze or a dampened tea bag for at least 20-30 minutes to help the blood clot.
- Avoid disruption: Refrain from spitting or rinsing your mouth aggressively, as it can dislodge the clot.
- Keep your head elevated: Prop yourself up with pillows to minimize blood flow to the extraction site.
- Rest: Avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours after the procedure.
Pro tip: If bleeding persists or worsens, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately for further evaluation and guidance.
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What Foods To Avoid After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, it’s crucial to avoid certain foods that can hinder the healing process and cause complications.
Opt for soft foods and clear liquids to maintain your strength and hygiene.
Foods to avoid after wisdom tooth extraction:
- Hard and crunchy foods (e.g., popcorn, nuts, chips)
- Chewy foods (e.g., gum, caramel, tough meats)
- Hot and spicy foods (e.g., chili peppers, curry)
- Acidic and citrus foods (e.g., oranges, lemonade)
- Sugary foods (e.g., candy, pastries)
- Seeds and grains that can get stuck in the extraction site
- Alcoholic beverages
Pro tip: Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet, including foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce, to promote a smooth recovery and prevent any complications.
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How To Take Care of Yourself After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, it is crucial to take proper care of yourself to ensure a smooth recovery.
Users on Reddit frequently recommend these essential steps:
- Rest: Give your body ample time to recover; avoid strenuous activities for at least 24-48 hours post-extraction.
- Take prescribed medications: Follow the dentist’s instructions regarding pain relief and antibiotics.
- Apply ice: Apply an ice pack on the affected area to reduce swelling.
- Consume soft foods: Opt for easy-to-chew meals (e.g., smoothies, soups, and mashed potatoes) for the first few days.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, but avoid using a straw to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Gently brush and floss, being careful around the extraction site.
- Avoid smoking: Refrain from smoking for at least 72 hours after the procedure.
By following these tips, you can minimize complications and ensure a comfortable recovery after wisdom tooth extraction.
Conclusion
After wisdom tooth extraction, it is common to experience pain, swelling, bleeding, and difficulty eating.
However, by following proper aftercare instructions, you can manage these symptoms and promote healing.
TL;DR:
- Pain, swelling, and bleeding are normal after wisdom tooth extraction.
- Take painkillers and apply ice packs to manage discomfort.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, and spicy foods.
- Gently rinse your mouth with salt water and avoid smoking.
- Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions for a speedy recovery.
Action List:
- Take painkillers and apply ice packs to manage discomfort.
- Stick to a soft food diet and avoid hard, crunchy, and spicy foods.
- Gently rinse your mouth with salt water to promote healing.
- Avoid smoking and drinking through a straw.
- Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully.
FAQ
How do I care for my extraction site after having a wisdom tooth removed?
It is important to follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare following wisdom tooth extraction.
Generally, this will involve keeping the area clean and dry, applying cold compresses for swelling and/or pain, and taking any prescribed medications.
Additionally, it is important to avoid drinking through a straw, smoking, and participating in vigorous physical activity.
When can I expect to feel relief from wisdom tooth removal?
The amount of time for recovery and relief from wisdom tooth removal will vary from person to person.
Generally, it will take a few days to a week for the initial swelling and pain to subside. It can take up to 2-3 weeks for complete healing.
How long does it take for a wisdom tooth extraction site to heal?
The healing process for wisdom tooth extraction typically takes 1 – 2 weeks.
During this time, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your dentist and to take any medications as prescribed.
What should I avoid after wisdom tooth extraction?
After wisdom tooth extraction, it is important to avoid smoking, using straws, and eating hard or crunchy foods.
Additionally, it is important to avoid vigorously brushing the affected area and also to avoid touching the extraction site with your tongue.
Video On Tooth extraction aftercare I Wisdom tooth extraction – Tips for faster healing & prevent dry socket
How Long Should I Rest After Getting My Wisdom Teeth Out?
After wisdom teeth extraction, it is essential to take proper rest to allow your body to heal.
The amount of rest required will depend on various factors, such as the type of extraction, age, and other underlying health conditions.
In general, most dentists recommend taking it easy for the first few days and avoiding any strenuous activity. It is recommended to take at least two to three days off from work or school to give your body time to heal.
After the initial few days, you can gradually increase your activity level, but it’s best to avoid any intense physical activity for at least a week.
Here are some important things to keep in mind when it comes to rest after wisdom teeth removal:
- Take at least two to three days off from work or school
- Avoid any strenuous activity for the first few days
- Gradually increase your activity level after the initial few days
- Avoid intense physical activity for at least a week
What Should I Do Directly After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After wisdom teeth removal, it is essential to take proper care of yourself to avoid any complications and promote healing.
Here are some things you should do directly after the procedure:
- Bite down on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for about 30-45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Apply ice packs on the affected area to minimize swelling and bruising.
- Rest for the remainder of the day and avoid any heavy activity or exercise.
- Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws as they may dislodge the blood clot formed in the socket.
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, pudding, or soup for the first few days.
- Take the prescribed pain medication as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
- Keep your mouth clean by gently brushing your teeth and rinsing with saltwater.
By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth recovery and minimize any discomfort.
When Can I Eat Mcdonald’S After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
It is recommended to wait for a few days before eating solid foods after having wisdom teeth removed.
The healing process can take up to two weeks, during which time it is crucial to stick to soft and easy-to-eat foods.
McDonald’s food is not the best option for immediate post-surgery meals because of its crunchy and chewy texture.
Moreover, fast-food items are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can increase swelling and pain. It is best to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet to aid in the healing process.
Here are some soft food suggestions that can be consumed after wisdom teeth removal:
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Soup
- Smoothies
- Pureed fruits and vegetables
- Scrambled eggs
Remember to avoid using a straw for drinking fluids as it can dislodge the healing blood clot.
Should You Avoid Talking After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
After having wisdom teeth removed, it is recommended to avoid talking excessively as it can lead to bleeding and interfere with the healing process.
However, complete avoidance of talking is not necessary. It is important to communicate with loved ones, but it is best to keep it to a minimum and avoid any strenuous talking or laughing.
It is also important to avoid using straws, smoking, and eating hard or crunchy foods. To promote healing, it is recommended to rest as much as possible and keep the head elevated.
Additionally, following the postoperative instructions provided by the dentist or oral surgeon will help ensure a smooth and comfortable recovery.
When Can I Use Mouthwash After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Reddit
After a wisdom tooth extraction, using mouthwash too soon can disrupt the formation of a blood clot and delay the healing process.
It is generally safe to start using mouthwash after 24 hours, but it is important to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon before doing so.
If you experience any pain or discomfort, wait a few more days before using mouthwash. Opt for a non-alcohol based formula as alcohol can also delay healing.
Here are some tips to follow regarding the use of mouthwash after wisdom tooth extraction:
- Wait 24 hours before using mouthwash
- Consult with your dentist or oral surgeon before using mouthwash
- Use a non-alcohol based formula to avoid disrupting the healing process
- If you experience any pain or discomfort, wait a few more days before using mouthwash.
Keeping Wisdom Teeth After Removal Reddit
After removal of wisdom teeth, many people often wonder whether they can keep them or not.
Some even turn to Reddit to discuss this topic. While it is possible to keep your extracted wisdom teeth, there are several factors to consider before doing so.
Firstly, you need to confirm with your dentist if keeping the teeth is allowed. Additionally, the teeth must be cleaned and sealed properly to prevent bacteria growth and decay.
Furthermore, keeping the teeth as a souvenir may not be a good idea as it can be a potential health hazard.
If you’re interested in preserving your extracted teeth, you can consider having them professionally cleaned, sterilized, and mounted for display.
However, it’s important to remember that this can be quite costly, and may not be worth the investment for everyone.
How Long to Recover from Wisdom Teeth Removal Reddit
The recovery time after Wisdom Teeth Removal can vary depending on factors such as age, overall health, the degree of difficulty of the extraction, and how well you follow postoperative care instructions.
Reddit users have shared their personal experiences and approximate recovery time. Generally, it takes about 7-10 days to recover fully after wisdom teeth removal.
During the first few days, you may experience pain, swelling, and bleeding. However, these symptoms will gradually subside, and you can resume normal activities after a week or so.
It is advisable to follow the postoperative instructions given by your dentist, take pain medication as prescribed, maintain oral hygiene, and avoid hard and crunchy foods for the first few days.
Remember, everyone heals differently, and if you experience any complications or have concerns, consult your dentist immediately.
Tips:
- Recovery time after wisdom teeth removal usually takes 7-10 days.
- Pain, swelling, and bleeding are common symptoms during the first few days.
- Follow postoperative care instructions for a smoother recovery.
- Avoid hard and crunchy foods for the first few days.
- Consult your dentist if you experience complications or have concerns.
How Bad is Wisdom Teeth Recovery Reddit
The Wisdom Teeth Recovery process can be a harrowing experience for some individuals.
According to Reddit discussions, the severity of recovery depends on various factors, including the type of extraction, age, and overall health of the patient.
However, recovery time for most people is generally 3-4 days. During this time, the patient may experience pain, swelling, and bleeding.
The level of pain can range from mild to severe, and it can be managed with medication. Swelling and bruising may occur and can last up to a week.
It is recommended to follow post-op instructions, including keeping the area clean, avoiding smoking or drinking, and eating soft food.
Some people may experience complications such as infection or dry sockets, which can prolong the recovery time.
In general, the recovery period for wisdom teeth removal is manageable, and most people resume normal activities after a week or two.
Key takeaways:
- Recovery time is generally 3-4 days.
- Pain, swelling, and bleeding may occur during recovery.
- Post-op instructions should be followed.
- Complications such as infection or dry sockets can occur.
