Having your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure that many people go through. Although it may sound intimidating, with proper care and post-operative instructions, the recovery process can be smooth and relatively pain-free. In this article, we will delve into ten aspects of how you may feel after having your wisdom teeth removed and provide helpful insights to guide you through the recovery period.
1. Numbness and Initial Discomfort
Immediately after the wisdom teeth removal surgery, it is normal to experience numbness in the surrounding areas of your mouth and face, due to the effects of anesthesia. Additionally, you may feel some initial discomfort, such as a dull ache or soreness. This discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication prescribed by your oral surgeon.
In most cases, the initial discomfort subsides within a couple of days, and you will gradually start feeling better. It is important to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the intake of pain medication and any other prescribed treatments or precautions during this period.
If the pain worsens or persists beyond a few days, it is essential to contact your oral surgeon to ensure proper healing and to rule out any complications.
2. Swelling and Bruising
Swelling is a common side effect of wisdom teeth removal, which typically peaks within the first 48-72 hours after surgery. The extent of swelling varies from person to person, and it can affect the cheeks, jaw, and sometimes even the neck. Applying an ice pack or cold compress to the affected areas for short intervals can help alleviate the swelling.
Bruising can also occur, especially if the surgery involves any form of trauma or minor bleeding. However, both the swelling and bruising should gradually diminish within a week or two as the healing process progresses.
It is important to note that if the swelling worsens or is accompanied by severe pain or difficulty in breathing, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, as it may be a sign of infection or other complications.
3. Restricted Diet and Eating Challenges
Following the removal of your wisdom teeth, you will likely be advised to follow a restricted diet for the first few days. This is to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of damaging the surgical site. Your oral surgeon will provide specific dietary guidelines, but generally, you can expect to consume only soft foods, such as soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies, during this time.
Eating challenges may arise during the initial recovery period, as your mouth and jaw may feel uncomfortable or tender. Chewing hard foods or foods that require excessive jaw movement should be avoided. It is essential to take smaller bites and chew slowly with the unaffected areas of your mouth to reduce strain on the surgical site.
As healing progresses, you will gradually reintroduce regular foods back into your diet, as advised by your oral surgeon. It is crucial to follow the recommended dietary guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery process.
4. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
After the removal of wisdom teeth, some individuals experience temporary difficulty in opening their mouths wide. This condition, known as trismus, is primarily caused by inflammation and muscle stiffness in the jaw joint area due to the surgical procedure.
To alleviate trismus, your oral surgeon may recommend gentle jaw exercises, such as opening and closing your mouth slowly or massaging the affected area. Applying warm compresses to the jaw can also provide relief. In most cases, this condition resolves on its own within a week or two, but it is always advisable to consult your surgeon if you have concerns.
It is important to remember to take gentle care of your mouth in the early stages of recovery to avoid any unintended stress on the jaw joint.
5. Bad Breath and Unpleasant Taste
Following wisdom teeth removal, it is common to experience bad breath and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. This is primarily due to the accumulation of bacteria and food particles in the surgical sites. It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene during this period to minimize these effects.
Your oral surgeon will provide instructions on how to safely clean your mouth without disturbing the surgical site. This may include gentle rinsing with warm saltwater or using an antimicrobial mouthwash. Proper brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning techniques will also contribute to a fresher breath and taste.
It is important to note that if bad breath or an unpleasant taste persists or worsens, it could indicate an infection, and you should seek advice from your oral surgeon.
6. Stitches and Dissolvable Sutures
Depending on the complexity of the wisdom teeth removal or any potential complications, your oral surgeon may use stitches (sutures) to close the surgical sites. These stitches can be dissolvable or non-dissolvable, and the type used will depend on your surgeon's preference and the specific case.
If dissolvable sutures are used, they will gradually dissolve on their own within a week or two. Non-dissolvable stitches, on the other hand, will need to be removed by your surgeon after a certain period, usually around seven to ten days.
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for the stitches and when to schedule a follow-up appointment for their removal. It is essential to follow these instructions diligently to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications.
7. Restricted Physical Activity
It is important to limit physical activity, including exercise and heavy lifting, during the initial days of recovery following wisdom teeth removal. Strenuous physical exertion can increase bleeding, swelling, and discomfort, prolonging the healing process.
Your oral surgeon will provide guidance on the appropriate level of physical activity based on your specific case. It is crucial to follow these instructions to allow your body to heal effectively.
8. Dry Socket and its Prevention
Dry socket is a potential complication that can occur after wisdom teeth extraction. It happens when the blood clot that forms in the socket is dislodged or dissolves prematurely, exposing the underlying bone and nerves.
To help prevent dry socket, it is essential to follow your oral surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully. This may include avoiding smoking, using straws, or any activity that creates suction in the mouth, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot.
If you experience severe, radiating pain around the surgical site a few days after the surgery, it could be a sign of dry socket. It is crucial to contact your oral surgeon promptly for appropriate treatment.
9. Duration of Healing and Recovery
The duration of healing and recovery after wisdom teeth removal can vary from person to person. Generally, it takes about one to two weeks for the surgical sites to close and for most of the initial symptoms to subside.
However, complete healing of the tissues and bones may take several weeks or even months. It is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your oral surgeon diligently and attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled.
10. Cost and Insurance Coverage
The cost of wisdom teeth removal varies depending on various factors, including the complexity of the procedure, the number of teeth being removed, location, and individual dental insurance coverage. On average, a simple wisdom tooth extraction can cost between $75 and $200 per tooth, while surgical extractions can range from $225 to $600 per tooth.
It is important to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon regarding the cost and check with your dental insurance provider to understand the coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will removing my wisdom teeth affect my jawline or face shape?
A: No, removing wisdom teeth will not affect your jawline or face shape. The procedure only involves the removal of the teeth and does not impact the underlying structure of the jaw or face.
Q: How long does it take to schedule a wisdom teeth removal appointment?
A: The time it takes to schedule a wisdom teeth removal appointment can vary depending on the oral surgeon's availability and the urgency of the case. It is best to contact the oral surgeon's office as soon as possible to discuss appointment options.
Q: Can I drive myself home after the wisdom teeth removal procedure?
A: It is generally recommended to have someone accompany you to your appointment and drive you home after the procedure. The effects of anesthesia and any prescribed pain medications can impair your judgment and reflexes, making it unsafe to drive on your own.
Q: What are potential complications after wisdom teeth removal?
A: While complications are rare, potential risks include infection, dry socket, paresthesia (numbness or tingling), excessive bleeding, or damage to adjacent teeth or structures. Following proper post-operative care instructions and promptly notifying your oral surgeon of any concerns can help mitigate these risks.
Q: Where can I find more information about wisdom teeth removal?
A: For further information about wisdom teeth removal, you can visit reliable sources such as the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) website at or consult with your oral surgeon for personalized guidance.
Remember, every individual's post-operative experience may vary, and it is essential to seek professional advice from your oral surgeon for specific concerns or complications you may encounter.
