How to look after your mouth after a wisdom tooth extraction

A wisdom tooth extraction is never a pleasant experience – all that tension in waiting for an appointment, then the injections and extraction itself can make anyone nervous. However the pain usually felt in toothache before the extraction can be worse than the removal itself – and with some good aftercare, you can get back into the swing of things in no time.

#1. After the tooth is extracted the area will be covered by a gauze pad to staunch the bleeding. This can be removed after about 30 minutes; biting down can speed up the process.

#2. Avoid rinsing and gargling for at least 24 hours after the extraction as this can delay the wound from healing. Exercise should also be avoided to minimise the risk of bleeding.

#3. Hot and cold drinks should be avoided for at least 24 hours as the area will be more sensitive than normal.

#4. Regular pain medication such as paracetamol can help in the hours following a tooth extraction. Ibuprofen can also help to bring down any swelling.

#5. If the site begins to bleed at any point after an hour after surgery, you can place more gauze and bite down for ten minutes. In very rare cases, you may need to return to the surgery to have it looked at.

#6. It is normal for your mouth, cheeks, and lips to go numb from the anaesthesia. This can last anywhere between 2 and 6 hours.

#7. There will be a noticeable gap where the tooth has been extracted, but this will start to heal and normal gum line and tissue should appear after a week.

#8. You can choose to rinse with lukewarm water and salt if you wish to keep the area clean and free of debris.

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