What are the post-operative care instructions for wisdom teeth surgery?

Post-Operative Care Instructions for Wisdom Teeth Surgery

For optimal healing and to minimize complications after wisdom teeth surgery, follow these specific care instructions: keep the surgical area undisturbed, maintain a soft diet, use prescribed pain medications, avoid straws, and practice gentle oral hygiene. 1

Immediate Post-Surgical Care (First 24-48 Hours)

Pain Management

• Take prescribed pain medication as directed
• Ibuprofen 600mg three times daily is recommended for controlling swelling and discomfort for the first 3-7 days 1
• Acetaminophen/paracetamol 500mg three times daily can be used as an alternative 1
• For enhanced pain relief, a combination of acetaminophen and ibuprofen provides superior results compared to either medication alone 2, 3
• Avoid opioids unless first-line therapy is ineffective 1

Swelling Control

• Apply ice packs to the face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours
• If prescribed, take corticosteroids in decreasing doses as directed to reduce postoperative edema and trismus 1

Bleeding Management

• Bite gently on gauze pads placed over the surgical sites for 30-45 minutes
• Replace gauze as needed until bleeding subsides
• Minor oozing for the first 24 hours is normal
• If bleeding persists, bite on a moistened tea bag for 30 minutes (tannic acid helps form blood clots)

Diet and Hydration

First 48 Hours

• Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids
• Maintain a well-balanced soft diet 1
• Recommended foods: yogurt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, applesauce, pudding, soup (not too hot)
• Avoid hot foods and beverages that may dissolve blood clots 1
• Do not use straws for drinking as the suction can dislodge blood clots 1

Days 3-7

• Gradually introduce semi-soft foods as comfort allows
• Continue to avoid crunchy, hard, or spicy foods that may irritate the surgical sites

Oral Hygiene

First 24 Hours

• Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the wound area
• No brushing near the surgical sites

After 24 Hours

• Gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz water) 4-5 times daily, especially after meals
• From day 3, rinse with 0.12% chlorhexidine twice daily for 1 minute for at least 3 weeks 1
• Resume gentle brushing of teeth but avoid surgical sites

Activity Restrictions

• Rest with head elevated for the first 24-48 hours
• Avoid strenuous physical activity such as swimming, aerobics, or running for 7-10 days 1
• Avoid sudden pressure changes (e.g., airplane travel) 1
• If sneezing or blowing your nose is necessary, do so gently with your mouth open 1

Common Complications and Management

Dry Socket

• Symptoms: Increasing pain 3-4 days after surgery, bad taste/odor
• Prevention: Avoid smoking, straws, and vigorous rinsing
• Management: Return to your dentist for medicated dressing placement

Infection

• Symptoms: Persistent pain, swelling, fever, foul taste
• Prevention: Take prescribed antibiotics if indicated (e.g., amoxicillin 500mg three times daily for 7 days) 1
• Management: Contact your dentist if symptoms develop

Numbness

• Temporary numbness of lip/tongue is common
• Should resolve gradually over days to weeks
• Report persistent numbness at follow-up appointment

Follow-Up Care

• Return for suture removal and check-up 10-14 days after surgery 1
• Contact your dentist immediately if you experience:
  • Excessive bleeding not controlled by pressure
  • Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medications
  • Swelling that worsens after 2-3 days
  • Allergic reactions to medications
  • Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

Important Cautions

• Avoid smoking for at least 72 hours as it significantly impairs healing
• Do not drive or operate machinery while taking prescription pain medications
• Patients with compromised immunity may need extended healing time before resuming normal oral hygiene practices 4

By following these detailed instructions, you can minimize discomfort and complications while promoting optimal healing after wisdom teeth surgery.