Frequently Asked Questions About Wisdom Teeth Removal

We suggest securing your wisdom teeth appointment two to four weeks ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to prepare, especially during our busier seasons like summer. You’ll appreciate having extra days to organize your recovery supplies and arrange for someone to drive you home. Our team can help you find a convenient date that works for your calendar.

We typically recommend removing wisdom teeth between ages 17 and 25 when healing tends to be faster. At this age, the tooth roots aren’t fully formed, which often makes your extraction more straightforward. Your dentist will examine your specific situation with x-rays to determine what’s best for you.

You’ll need to stop eating solid foods eight to 12 hours before your wisdom teeth procedure. If you are receiving IV sedation, we typically ask that you have nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Your dentist will provide you with specific instructions based on your appointment time. Following these guidelines carefully helps ensure your procedure goes smoothly and safely.

We recommend filling your pain medication prescription beforehand so it’s ready when you arrive home. Stock your kitchen with soft foods like yogurt, smoothie ingredients, and soup that will be gentle on your healing mouth. Ask a friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure since you won’t be able to drive yourself. Create a cozy recovery spot with pillows for elevation, entertainment options, and everything you’ll need within easy reach.

You’ll want to gently apply ice packs to your cheeks (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) to keep swelling down. Take your medications exactly as prescribed to stay ahead of pain and prevent infection. Rest with your head propped up on pillows to minimize swelling and help you heal faster. Remember to avoid straws, smoking, and spitting, as these actions can interfere with the important blood clots forming in your extraction sites.

Your healing will go more smoothly when you carefully follow the aftercare instructions we provide just for you. Stick with cool, soft foods like pudding and applesauce that won’t disturb your surgical sites. Begin gentle salt water rinses after 24 hours if we’ve included this in your care plan. Don’t hesitate to call our office if you notice severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection. We’re here to help.

You’ll likely still benefit from ice packs for any persistent swelling on your second day. If we’ve recommended them, start your gentle salt water rinses to keep your mouth clean and comfortable. Continue enjoying soft foods, perhaps adding slightly more substantial options if you’re feeling up to it. Take it easy at home, continuing your medications as directed and limiting your activities to promote healing.

On day three, you might switch to warm compresses instead of ice if we’ve suggested this change to address remaining swelling. Continue being gentle with your brushing and oral care, working around the surgical areas carefully. By now, you can usually try softer sandwiches or pasta if you’re comfortable, while still avoiding anything crunchy or spicy. Many of our patients feel ready for light activities by this point, though we still recommend avoiding workouts or heavy lifting.

You can and should drink water after your wisdom teeth come out. Staying hydrated helps you heal. Take small, careful sips rather than big gulps, especially in those first few hours. We strongly recommend avoiding straws as the suction can dislodge the protective blood clots forming in your sockets. Room temperature water is usually most comfortable for our patients right after surgery.

We often recommend gentle salt water rinses starting 24 hours after your procedure. Mix half a teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water for a soothing solution. Instead of swishing, just tilt your head gently from side to side to bathe the surgical areas without disturbing blood clots. Your aftercare instructions will tell you exactly when to start these helpful rinses.

We encourage you to drink plenty of water throughout your recovery to support proper healing. Begin with small sips whenever you feel comfortable after your procedure. Most patients find room temperature liquids most soothing in the first day after surgery. Remember that good hydration is an important part of your recovery process.

You can take your first sips of water as soon as you feel ready after your wisdom teeth removal. Start slowly with small amounts to make sure you’re comfortable. We find that room temperature water is gentlest on your surgical sites right after your procedure. Staying well-hydrated will help your body heal faster and keep you feeling better.

You may need three to five days away from work or school to recover comfortably. If your job involves physical activity or lifting, you might need up to a week before returning. Your personal recovery timeline depends on how complex your extraction was and how quickly your body heals. We recommend scheduling your procedure when you can take enough time to rest without rushing back to your responsibilities.