Recovery After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Managing Pain & Swelling

• Expect the first 48 hours to be the most uncomfortable. Over-the-counter pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help — sometimes using both (at safe intervals) gives better relief.
• Your jaw may feel stiff or sore, and opening your mouth fully might be difficult initially.
• To reduce swelling, gently apply a wrapped ice pack (or cold compress) to the outside of your cheek in 10- to 15-minute intervals.

Keeping the Wound Clean

• For the first 24 hours, do not rinse your mouth — doing so can disrupt healing or cause bleeding.
• After the first day, gently rinse with saline solution or an antibacterial mouthwash after meals to keep debris and bacteria away from the extraction site.
• Continue brushing your teeth as usual, but be very gentle near the healing area. If bleeding starts, apply light pressure with a clean handkerchief or gauze.
• Avoid hot, acidic, or spicy foods that might irritate the wound or cause fresh bleeding.

Eating & Drinking Safely

• Immediately following surgery, you should avoid all eating and drinking until the anaesthetic wears off.
• For the next few days, stick to soft, lukewarm or cool foods — think yoghurt, mashed potato, soup, smoothies — while avoiding chewing near the extraction site.
• Avoid alcohol and extremely hot or cold beverages, especially during the first 24 hours.
• Gradually reintroduce your normal diet as the area heals — but always be cautious around the extraction zone.

When to Reach Out for Help

Most patients heal uneventfully, but you should contact your dentist if you notice any of the following:

• Pain that gets worse instead of improving
• Heavy or prolonged bleeding
• Swelling that spreads or worsens
• Persistent foul taste or smell
• Numbness lingering beyond expected recovery

If you experience any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate — call Bayswater Dental Clinic immediately. Early checks help ensure your recovery stays on track.