Surviving Wisdom Teeth Extraction: Tips for a Smooth Recovery
If you’re one of many needing to remove their wisdom teeth, you may feel anxious about recovery. But fear not! With some preparation and helpful tips, the recovery process can be a walk in the park. At Station Park Dental, we’ll guide you throughout the process and ensure you receive the best wisdom teeth removal in Farmington, Utah.
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: After the surgery, we’ll give instructions for caring for the surgical area. Follow instructions carefully to ensure that your mouth heals best! Instructions may include avoiding solid foods for a few days, using ice packs to reduce swelling, and rinsing with salt water to keep the area clean. Ultimately, we’ll customize each list of guidelines to your needs.
- Stock up on Soft Foods: There are two times you should stock up on soft foods- before a nuclear apocalypse or for wisdom teeth removal! For the first few days after surgery, you’ll want to avoid hard, crunchy foods that could irritate the surgical site. Stock up on soft foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, and smoothies to make your recovery easier.
- Got Water? It’s essential to stay hydrated after surgery to help your body heal. Drink plenty of water, and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks that could dehydrate you.
- Take Pain Medication, Please! Your dentist will likely prescribe pain medication to help you manage discomfort after surgery. Ensure you take this medication as prescribed, and don’t wait until the pain is severe.
- Ice, Ice, Baby: Applying an ice pack to your face can help reduce swelling and discomfort. While swelling is expected, using an icepack for 20 minutes can negate these side effects.
- Get Those Extra Zzzzz’s. Rest is essential for healing after surgery, so ensure you get plenty! Don’t be afraid to take time off school or work- not that you might’ve needed such an extreme excuse anyway. Avoid strenuous physical activity, and save hiking Mt. Everest for another day.
- Don’t Smoke or Use Tobacco: Smoking or other tobacco products can slow the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you use tobacco products, try to quit before your surgery, or at least avoid using them for a few days after the procedure. Either way, avoiding these harmful substances is good either way!
- Come Back and Say Hi. We’ll schedule follow-up appointments to check your progress and ensure your mouth is healing properly. Attend these appointments like your life depends on them! They can mean the difference between proper healing and unnecessary pain.
Following these tips can make the recovery process after wisdom teeth extraction as smooth, successful, and comfortable as possible. Remember to be patient with yourself and give your body the time it needs to heal properly. And don’t forget to reach out if you have any questions!
We’re Here to Help!
At Station Park Dental, we understand that wisdom teeth extraction can be a daunting experience for many. That’s why we’re here to help you through every step of the process. We offer personalized care and support to help you with questions or concerns before, during, and after the procedure.
Wisdom Teeth Removal in Farmington, Utah
While wisdom teeth extraction may seem daunting, with the proper preparation and recovery plan, you can come out on the other side with a smile (once the swelling goes down, of course!). At Station Park Dental, Dr. Elizabeth Wilcox and Dr. Ryan Allen are here to help you every step of the way. We offer personalized care and guidance to ensure smooth and painless extraction.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for all your dental needs; we’ve got your back (and teeth)!