Tips Designed to Hasten Recovery Time After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Posted on: 28 January 2016

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Wisdom teeth are the third molars that are in the furthest back region of your mouth. Healthy wisdom teeth do not require removal, but when wisdom teeth become impacted or do not emerge normally, they do need to be extracted. This type of procedure is fairly common at most dental clinics, but it is important that you are aware of recovery instructions that are designed to help you speed up the amount of time that it takes you to recover fully after you undergo wisdom teeth removal. 

Clot

It is important that you take extra care to ensure that the blood clot that forms over the socket of the wisdom tooth that was extracted is not disturbed in any way. Moving the clot can negatively impact the healing process and lengthen recovery time. This means that you are not instructed to drink from a straw for the first few days after you have your wisdom teeth removed. The suction that is created in your mouth when you suck liquids through a straw could potentially dislodge the blood clot that is forming. In order to protect the clot that is forming, you should place gauze over the extraction site for the first few days. All strenuous activity like running and jumping should be avoided for a few days to ensure that your blood clot is not dislodged in any way through movement.

Elevation

It is also recommended that you prop your head up at all times. It is not suggested that you lay flat the first few days following your wisdom teeth removal. By propping up your head up, you have the ability to limit the amount of swelling that takes place and can even lessen the amount of bleeding that occurs. Ice packs can also be helpful when you are trying to reduce the amount of swelling.

Rinse

After a few days have passed, it is then safe for you to begin rinsing your mouth out again. It is suggested that you rinse your mouth out with warm salt water. This solution is one of the best ways to prevent against infection after wisdom teeth removal. You can also try applying a type of Chlorhexidine gel to the site of the extraction to help promote healing and keep the wound clean. Make sure that you do not begin rinsing your mouth or applying the gel until the clot has dissolved and no more bleeding is occurring.

For further assistance, contact a local dental clinic, such as Bruce Stevens Dental.