Having your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure that can alleviate pain and prevent future dental problems. However, proper post-operative care is essential for a smooth recovery process. Here are some things you should avoid doing after wisdom teeth removal:
- Skipping Rest: Your body needs time to heal after surgery, so avoid strenuous activities and get plenty of rest. Take it easy for the first few days and avoid activities that could disrupt the healing process.
- Ignoring Pain Medication Instructions: Your dentist will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort after surgery. Follow their instructions carefully and take the medication as directed. Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable before taking your medication.
- Skipping Oral Hygiene: While it’s essential to be gentle around the surgical sites, it’s still important to maintain good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction sites, and rinse your mouth with saltwater or an antiseptic mouthwash as directed by your dentist.
- Using Straws or Smoking: Suction from using a straw or smoking can dislodge blood clots and delay the healing process. Avoid using straws and refrain from smoking for at least a few days after surgery to promote proper healing.
- Eating Hard or Chewy Foods: Stick to soft foods like yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies during the first few days after surgery. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the surgical sites or get lodged in the extraction sockets.
- Drinking Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with the healing process and may interact with pain medication. It’s best to avoid alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours after surgery, or as directed by your oral surgeon.
- Neglecting Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure that your recovery is progressing as expected. They can monitor your healing and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following your dentist’s post-operative instructions, you can promote a smooth and speedy recovery after wisdom teeth removal.