Immediately After Wisdom Tooth Removal (First 24 Hours)
Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgical procedures. Following these post-operative instructions carefully will help you heal faster, reduce discomfort, and avoid complications such as dry socket.
Managing Bleeding
- Bite firmly on the gauze provided for 30 to 60 minutes after surgery.
- Mild oozing is normal for up to 24 hours.
- If bleeding continues, place fresh gauze and apply firm pressure for another 30 minutes.
- Avoid spitting or forceful rinsing, as this can dislodge the blood clot forming in the socket.
Reducing Swelling
- Apply ice externally (10 minutes on, 10 minutes off) for the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Swelling usually peaks at 48 to 72 hours before gradually improving.
Rest and Activity
- Rest for the remainder of the day after surgery.
- Avoid strenuous activity for at least 48 hours.
- Keep your head elevated when lying down to help reduce swelling.
What to Avoid in the First 24 Hours
- No rinsing of any kind
- No straws (suction can dislodge the blood clot)
- No smoking or vaping
- No alcohol
Medications After Wisdom Tooth Surgery
- Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and complete the full course.
- Begin pain medication before the numbness wears off for better comfort management.
- Anti-inflammatory medication helps reduce both swelling and pain.
- Do not drive while taking strong pain relief.
- Seek urgent medical care if you experience a rash, breathing difficulty, or facial swelling.
Diet After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
For the first 3 to 5 days, eat soft, cool or lukewarm foods only.
Recommended foods: yoghurt, mashed vegetables, scrambled eggs, soft pasta, lukewarm soup.
Avoid: hot food or drinks for the first 24 hours, crunchy foods like chips and nuts, seeds or small grains that may lodge in the extraction sockets, and anything requiring heavy chewing near the surgical site. Do not use straws.
Stay well hydrated throughout your recovery.
Oral Hygiene After Extraction
First 24 Hours
- Do not rinse your mouth.
- Do not brush the surgical sites.
After 24 Hours
- Gently rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) three to four times daily, especially after meals.
- Resume brushing other teeth normally.
- Avoid direct brushing into the extraction sockets for several days.
Preventing Dry Socket
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site is dislodged or dissolves prematurely, exposing the underlying bone. It is one of the most common complications following wisdom tooth removal. To reduce the risk:
- Do not smoke for at least 72 hours, and ideally for 7 days or longer.
- Avoid using straws for at least one week.
- Avoid forceful rinsing or spitting.
- Do not probe the area with your tongue or fingers.
What Is Normal During Recovery
- Swelling peaking around Day 2 to 3
- Bruising around the jaw or under the eyes
- Mild bleeding or oozing for 24 to 48 hours
- Jaw stiffness (trismus) lasting several days
- Gradual improvement in symptoms after Day 3
When to Contact Your Dentist
- Severe pain that worsens after Day 3 (may indicate dry socket)
- Heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm gauze pressure
- Fever or chills
- Pus discharge from the extraction site
- A foul smell or taste from the socket
- Persistent numbness beyond 24 hours
If you experience any of these symptoms, contact ArtSmiles on the Gold Coast for prompt assessment.