Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, refer to the innermost third molars on the mandible. Some people have them erupt early in life, while others may not have them until middle age or may never have them at all. How long does it take to recover after wisdom teeth extraction?
How long does it take to recover after wisdom teeth extraction?
In general, the pain and discomfort after tooth extraction will significantly improve after about 3 days. In the absence of wound infection, the wound can achieve preliminary recovery in about 1 week, at which point normal eating can be resumed. However, it is important to avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods. The wound will typically fully recover after 2-3 months. The specific recovery period may vary depending on factors such as individual constitution, doctor's diagnosis, and the depth of wisdom tooth roots.
Factors that promote recovery
If you want to recover quickly after wisdom teeth extraction, you can try the following methods to relieve pain and promote recovery.
1. On the first day after extraction, apply ice pack to the skin around the extraction site. This can help constrict blood vessels, reduce local blood supply, and alleviate pain. However, be sure to wrap the ice pack with a towel to avoid excessive stimulation from low temperatures.
2. Starting from the second day after extraction, use a warm towel to apply heat to the skin around the extraction site. This localized heating method can increase blood supply to the extraction site, improve wound metabolism, and promote recovery.
3. It is not advisable to eat or brush teeth on the day of wisdom tooth extraction. Generally, eating and brushing teeth can be resumed one day after extraction. Specifically, rinsing the mouth on the second day after extraction is beneficial for maintaining oral hygiene and promoting wound recovery.
Factors that hinder recovery
If you do not pay enough attention after wisdom teeth extraction, it can easily affect wound recovery. Although individual constitution and doctor's treatment plan have an impact on wound recovery, postoperative care is also crucial. The following conditions can hinder wound recovery.
1. Consuming excessively spicy food. After the obvious pain from wisdom tooth extraction subsides, consuming alcohol or spicy food can easily irritate the wound and hinder complete recovery.
2. Rinsing the mouth on the day of tooth extraction. Rinsing the mouth on the same day as wisdom tooth extraction can easily dislodge the blood clot in the socket, affecting normal wound healing, and in severe cases, it may even cause infection.
What to do if recovery is delayed after wisdom teeth extraction
If the recovery is delayed after wisdom teeth extraction, such as the wound not healing for a long time or experiencing prolonged pain, it is important to seek timely medical treatment. It is not recommended to blindly use anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving drugs.
