After Wisdom Tooth Removal

The removal of impacted teeth is a serious surgical procedure. Post-operative care is very important. Unnecessary pain and the complications of infection and swelling can be minimized if the instructions are followed carefully.

Home Care Instructions After Oral Surgery

1. Pain:

Some level of pain is expected after oral surgery, depending on the extent of the procedure. Stop by a pharmacy on your way home to submit your prescription. While waiting for the prescription to be filled, take 4 over-the-counter Advil (200 mg), which is equivalent to one Motrin 800 mg prescribed by the doctor. After 3–4 hours, if pain persists, take Extra Strength Tylenol. If pain still continues, you may take Percocet.

Please note: The pain medications listed here are standard. They may change depending on your specific case or as directed by your doctor.

  • Motrin: Take every 6–8 hours; helps reduce swelling.
  • Zofran: Take as needed; anti-nausea medication. Zofran may also be given intravenously during surgery.
  • Peridex: Antimicrobial mouth rinse; use 3 times daily starting the day after surgery.
  • Percocet: Opioid; take only if necessary, e.g., if Extra Strength Tylenol does not relieve pain. Do not drive while taking this medication.

Take all other prescribed medications as directed. Remove gauze before eating, drinking, sleeping, or taking medications.

2. Swelling:

Moderate swelling is normal after surgery. Swelling usually peaks within 24–48 hours and then gradually subsides. Keep your head elevated and apply an ice pack to the affected area for the first 48 hours. After 48 hours, you may switch to warm, moist heat for 2–6 days as needed.

3. Bleeding:

Minimal bleeding is expected when leaving the office. Bite on gauze for the first hour after surgery. For the next 5 hours, change gauze every hour. Bleeding should stop the same day. Avoid rinsing, spitting, using straws, or smoking for 24 hours, as these actions can dislodge blood clots and restart bleeding. If bleeding persists, place a clean gauze on the surgical site and bite firmly, sit upright (do not lie down), and apply an ice pack. If bleeding continues, bite on a moistened tea bag wrapped in gauze for 1 hour.

4. Mouth Rinsing:

Do not rinse your mouth for the first 24 hours. After 24 hours, gently rinse 6 times daily for 5 days with a solution of warm salt water. If prescribed, alternate with Peridex rinse. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of salt in 2/3 cup of warm water and rinse gently for 2–3 minutes at the surgical site. Avoid vigorous rinsing to prevent dislodging blood clots.

5. Diet:

Eat only soft foods or liquids for the first 24 hours. Drink plenty of fluids (at least 2 liters) to prevent dehydration. After the first 24 hours, eat whatever is comfortable. Avoid nuts, popcorn, and other hard or chewy foods that may get stuck in the socket.

6 Oral Hygiene:

Good oral hygiene promotes faster healing. Starting 24 hours after surgery, rinse with warm salt water and gently brush teeth with a soft toothbrush.

7. Contact your dentist immediately if you experience:

  • Severe bleeding
  • High fever
  • Rapid swelling causing difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Persistent vomiting

Soft foods suitable after surgery:

  • Pasta
  • Applesauce
  • Pudding
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Soups
  • Jell-O
  • Ice cream
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Baked potatoes
  • Yogurt
  • Oatmeal
  • Smoothies/Milkshakes (no straws for 7 days)
  • Protein shakes
  • Bananas
  • Beans
  • Mac & Cheese
  • Avocado
  • Ramen

Additional Notes:

  • Lips and tongue may feel numb for several hours; this is normal.
  • Mouth may feel dry for a few hours.
  • Avoid hot foods or drinks for 4 hours after surgery to prevent burns while numb.