Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal

We recommend scheduling your wisdom teeth removal appointment two to four weeks in advance to secure your preferred date. This advance planning is especially important during busy periods like summer breaks, when many other patients might book their procedure. The extra time allows you to properly prepare for your procedure and recovery period. You’ll also have time to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

We recommend removing wisdom teeth between ages 17 and 25 when the roots aren’t fully developed yet. Extraction at this age typically means easier removal and faster healing for you. Your dentist will discuss your ideal timing. We take X-rays and perform thorough exams to determine if and when removal is necessary.

You should stop eating solid foods eight to 12 hours before your wisdom teeth removal appointment. If you are having IV sedation, this means no food or drink after midnight the night before surgery. Your dentist will provide specific fasting instructions based on your scheduled time and type of anesthesia. Following these instructions carefully helps ensure your safety during the procedure.

We recommend you fill all prescriptions in advance so they’re ready when you return home after surgery. Be sure to stock up on soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup that will be easy to eat during your recovery period. Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after the procedure since you’ll be unable to drive. Prepare a comfortable recovery space at home. Make sure you set yourself up with pillows to keep your head elevated, entertainment options, and all necessary supplies within easy reach.

Make sure you apply ice packs to your face for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. This is important for reducing the swelling during the first 24 to 48 hours. Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed by your dentist to manage pain and prevent infection. Rest with your head elevated on pillows to minimize swelling and promote healing. Avoid using straws, smoking, or spitting forcefully. These actions can dislodge blood clots and lead to painful dry socket.

Follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully. They’re customized for your specific procedure. Eat only soft, cool foods like yogurt, pudding, and applesauce for the first few days to avoid disrupting the surgical sites. Begin gentle salt water rinses 24 hours after surgery if approved by your dentist to keep the area clean. Contact your dental office immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, fever, or signs of infection.

On day two, continue applying ice if swelling persists, following the 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off pattern. Begin gentle salt water rinses as directed by your dentist to help keep the surgical areas clean. Maintain your soft food diet, gradually introducing slightly more substantial options if you feel comfortable. Take your medications as prescribed and continue to rest, limiting physical activity to promote proper healing.

You may switch from ice to warm compresses if recommended by your dentist to help reduce any remaining swelling. Continue your oral hygiene routine while being gentle around the surgical sites to prevent irritation. You can gradually introduce slightly more substantial soft foods as comfortable, but continue avoiding crunchy, spicy, or hard items. You can typically begin light activity by day three, but continue to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.

Yes, you can and should drink water after wisdom teeth removal to stay hydrated during recovery. Take small, careful sips rather than large gulps, especially during the first few hours. Avoid using straws as the suction can dislodge blood clots and lead to complications. Room temperature water is usually most comfortable, as extremely hot or cold temperatures might cause discomfort.

Yes, you can use salt water rinses beginning 24 hours after your wisdom teeth removal. Mix half a teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water for a gentle, healing rinse. Tilt your head side to side very gently instead of swishing forcefully to avoid disturbing the blood clots. Your dentist will include specific instructions about salt water rinses in your aftercare plan.

Yes, drinking water is encouraged after wisdom teeth extraction to prevent dehydration during your recovery. Start with small, careful sips as soon as you feel ready after your procedure. Avoid extremely hot or cold water temperatures initially, as they may cause discomfort at the surgical sites. Remember to never use a straw when drinking any fluids for at least a week after surgery.

You can drink water as soon as you feel ready following your wisdom teeth removal procedure. Start with small, careful sips to ensure you’re comfortable swallowing without disturbing the surgical sites. Room temperature water is typically most comfortable in the hours immediately following surgery. Stay well-hydrated throughout your recovery, as proper hydration supports healing.

You may need three to five days off work or school to recover comfortably from wisdom teeth removal. If your job involves physical labor or heavy lifting, you might need to take up to a full week off to prevent complications. Your recovery timeline depends on several factors, including the complexity of your extraction and your body’s natural healing pace. We recommend scheduling your procedure when you can arrange for adequate time off to rest and recover fully.