Wisdom teeth are the third molars at the very back of the mouth, and they usually come in during the late teens or early twenties. When there is not enough room, they can become impacted, grow in at an angle, or be hard to keep clean. If your dentist has recommended removing one or more wisdom teeth, knowing what recovery looks like can make the process much easier.
Why Are Wisdom Teeth Removed?
Your dentist may recommend removing a wisdom tooth if it is causing pain, infection, decay, gum problems, crowding or damage to the neighboring tooth, or if X-rays show it is likely to cause problems later. Not every wisdom tooth needs to come out. An exam and dental X-rays help determine the right approach. Learn more on our tooth extraction in Brentwood, CA page.
Wisdom Tooth Recovery Timeline
The first 24 hours
Some bleeding and oozing is normal. Bite gently on gauze as instructed, rest with your head slightly raised, and use a cold compress on the outside of your face in short intervals to reduce swelling. A blood clot forms in the socket during this time, and protecting it is the most important part of healing.
Days 2 to 3
Swelling and jaw stiffness usually peak around the second or third day and then start to improve. Stick to soft foods, drink plenty of water, and take any medications exactly as your dentist or surgeon directed.
Days 4 to 7
Most people feel noticeably better and can return to many normal activities. Continue gentle care around the extraction site and slowly add more foods as comfort allows.
Weeks 1 to 2 and beyond
Soft tissue continues to heal over the next couple of weeks, and the bone underneath fills in over several months. Recovery time varies depending on how many teeth were removed, whether they were impacted, and your overall health.
Do’s and Don’ts After Wisdom Tooth Removal
- Do eat soft foods such as yogurt, smoothies (with a spoon), mashed potatoes, eggs and soup that is not too hot.
- Do keep your mouth clean, brushing gently around the area and rinsing as instructed.
- Don’t use a straw, smoke or vape for several days, because suction can dislodge the blood clot.
- Don’t spit forcefully or rinse vigorously in the first day.
- Don’t do strenuous exercise until your dentist says it is okay.
What Is Dry Socket?
Dry socket happens when the blood clot is lost or does not form properly, leaving bone exposed. It usually causes throbbing pain a few days after the extraction that may spread toward the ear, sometimes with an unpleasant taste or odor. If you think you have dry socket, contact your dentist so the area can be checked and treated.
When to Call Your Dentist
Call your dentist if you have bleeding that does not slow down, pain or swelling that gets worse after the third day, fever, pus, or numbness that does not go away. If you have trouble breathing or swallowing, seek emergency care right away. For urgent dental problems during office hours, see our emergency dentist in Brentwood page.
Wisdom Tooth Evaluation in Brentwood, CA
Not sure whether your wisdom teeth should come out? Marsh Creek Dental can examine your teeth, take X-rays and explain your options. Visit us at 7760 Brentwood Blvd., Suite A, Brentwood, CA 94513, call (925) 516-2988, or request an appointment online. We are open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and accept most dental insurance plans.