If you're considering getting your wisdom teeth removed, it's normal to be nervous about the process. What can you do to make the recovery smoother? Here are some tips for ensuring that you get back to life as usual sooner than later!
Take pain medication as prescribed by your dentist or doctor
This is probably the most important thing you can do to ease your recovery. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are both good choices for pain relief. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package, and don't take more than recommended. You should know that too much of either medication can harm your liver or kidneys. If you're experiencing a lot of pain, talk to your dentist about switching to a stronger pain reliever.
Drink plenty of fluids and eat soft foods
Your mouth will be pretty sore after surgery, so it's best to avoid chewing food. Drinking plenty of fluids will ensure that your body stays hydrated and doesn't become constipated or develop kidney stones (two common side effects of dehydration). If you're worried about getting dehydrated because you don't feel like eating much at first, ask your doctor how much water they recommend drinking each day. As for soft foods, mashed potatoes are an obvious choice, but there are many others! Some examples include yogurt, oatmeal, cream soups with rice noodles instead of pasta, etc.
Avoid smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol
Smoking and drinking alcohol won't help your recovery at all. They're likely to slow it down and cause you additional pain and discomfort. Tobacco use can increase the risk of developing serious complications like infection or dry socket while drinking alcohol can lead to dehydration. If you need help quitting smoking or drinking, talk to your doctor or dentist about available resources in your area.
Apply cold packs to swollen areas if they develop
Swelling is common after oral surgery. Applying cold packs can help to reduce the swelling and make you more comfortable. Be sure to put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your skin to avoid frostbite. You can also take over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl if you're experiencing significant swelling.
Following these tips should help make your recovery smoother and less painful! If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to talk to us. We'll answer any questions you have and provide additional advice on how best to care for yourself during this time.
If you're considering getting your wisdom teeth removed, it's normal to be nervous about the process. What can you do to make the recovery smoother? Here are some tips for ensuring that you get back to life as usual sooner than later!