Post-Operative Instructions for Wisdom Teeth (3rd Molar) Removal
Please follow these instructions carefully to promote proper healing and minimize discomfort after your wisdom teeth removal. If you have any questions or concerns, our team is always here to help.
Bleeding and Gauze Care
Immediately after surgery, keep firm pressure on the surgical site by gently biting down on the provided gauze pad. Some bleeding is normal. Replace the gauze as needed until the bleeding subsides.
Dizziness and Activity
You may feel lightheaded when standing up for the first few days after surgery. Move slowly from a lying or sitting position to avoid dizziness. Refrain from vigorous activity for 3–4 days, then resume normal routines as you feel comfortable.
Medication and Pain Management
Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed. If you were prescribed a stronger pain medication (other than aspirin, Tylenol, or ibuprofen), do not drive or operate machinery while taking it, as it may affect your alertness and reflexes.
If antibiotics were prescribed, complete the full course as directed to help prevent infection.
Swelling and Discomfort
Mild swelling and stiffness are normal within the first 24–48 hours and may increase slightly after 2–3 days. Apply a cold compress near the extraction site for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to help reduce swelling. Always place a cloth between the ice pack and your skin.
After 36 hours, switch to moist heat (like a warm compress) to promote healing and reduce stiffness.
Diet and Oral Care
- For the first 24–48 hours, avoid using straws, spitting, rinsing, or smoking to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
- Avoid hot, spicy, carbonated, or alcoholic beverages.
- Stick to a soft diet for the first few days — soups, yogurt, smoothies, and other gentle foods are best.
- Do not brush, rinse, or spit on the day of surgery. Resume gentle brushing the following day, avoiding the surgical areas.
- After brushing, gently rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon of salt in 8 oz. of warm water) three times daily for 7–10 days. This helps keep the area clean and supports healing.
Irrigation
Do not use the irrigating syringe for the first five days. After that, use it with warm salt water to gently flush out food or debris from the socket.
Numbness
Temporary numbness of the lip, chin, or tongue may occur. Normal sensation typically returns within a few days. Be cautious when chewing to avoid biting your tongue, lip, or cheek.
Dry Socket Awareness
A dry socket can occur if the blood clot becomes dislodged too soon. Symptoms may include throbbing pain in the jaw, ear, or adjacent teeth that begins 3–4 days after surgery and does not improve with pain medication. Contact our office if you experience these symptoms.
When to Call the Office
Please reach out to us if you experience:
- Severe or persistent pain
- Excessive bleeding or swelling
- Any concerns about healing
For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.