Wisdom teeth are the molars that grow furthest back in your mouth. Due to space in the mouth, most wisdom teeth have to be removed because they grow-in in odd directions. They can even cause misalignment of your perfectly straight teeth. When left in your mouth, wisdom teeth can cause extreme pain, infection and bone loss. If your dentist has suggested you have your wisdom teeth removed, follow this guide to surviving your wisdom teeth removal. It will help you navigate your post-surgical experience.
Rest
Most people are put under general anesthesia to have their wisdom teeth removed. After your surgery is complete and you go home, you will likely feel groggy the rest of the day. This is normal. However, the following day, you may wake up only feeling the effects of your surgery in your mouth. Don't let this feeling fool you. Rest is important to healing. While you may be able to control the pain with pain medication, just because you feel like your normal self doesn't mean you should be going about your normal business.
Medication
The most important part of your recovery will be staying on top of your recommended medication. Your dentist will have given you a variety of medications to control pain and infection. Take these medications as directed for the time suggested. As you start to feel better, you can wean yourself off any pain medication you may be taking. However, you must finish any antibiotic medications you were given post-surgery. These will help control infection at the surgical site.
Things to Avoid
Taking it slow is key to letting your mouth heal. If your jaw is extremely sensitive, open it slowly when eating. Only open it as far as it feels comfortable. Forcing it open any farther can loosen stitches or the blood clot at the surgical site. If the blood clot comes out, you increase the likelihood of a dry socket. Smoking can also increase the odds of a dry socket. If you are a smoker, find alternatives to satisfy your cravings during your recovery.
Lastly, avoid small food that can get stuck in the pockets of where your wisdom teeth once were. If food gets trapped in these pockets, infection can occur. For the first few days and up to a week post-surgery, stick to a liquid or 'soft' foods diet.
Wisdom teeth are a fact of life most can't avoid. If you are scheduled to have your wisdom teeth removed soon, don't forget these helpful hints. With plenty of rest, a strict medication regimen and avoiding the pitfalls that can cause infection, you'll sail through your recovery in no time at all.
For more information, contact a business such as New Image Cosmetic & Family Dentistry.
Share30 January 2015
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