How To Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Post-surgery swellings following wisdom teeth removal are a normal healing process, which may be painful and alarming. Knowing how to minimize swelling following the extraction of wisdom teeth can make your recovery process highly effective and enable you to resume normal activities sooner.
The maximum swelling occurs at about 48 to 72 hours following the extraction and subsides slowly during the next one week. This inflammatory is how your body defends the surgical site and starts the healing process. Although some swelling is normal, there are a number of effective plans that can reduce the pain and offer quicker healing.
The Best Way to Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Cold therapy, proper rest, and doing as your dentist tells you is the best way of dealing with swelling post-extraction. The first thing that you can use during the first 24-48 hours of surgery is an ice pack over face swelling wisdom teeth.
Using Ice Packs Effectively
- Ice packs are extremely important in minimising facial swelling. To achieve the best results, use the following guidelines:
- Use ice packs 15 to 20 minutes at a time, and then take 15-minute breaks, otherwise the skin can be damaged.
- Begin cold therapy right after surgery and stop the first 48 hours in time when the swelling is most prone to occur.
- Place the ice pack over the extraction site on the outside of your cheek to provide localized relief.
- Use a thin towel to cover ice packs to avoid exposing your body to extreme cold.
- Apply several ice packs when you have teeth removed on both sides of your mouth, switching sides.
- Prepare ice packs in advance in your freezer prior to your procedure to ensure ready access in case of recovery.
Home Remedies for Wisdom Tooth Gum Swelling
In addition to the ice therapy, the swelling of wisdom tooth gum can also be relieved by some home remedies. Keep your head high, even when asleep, with extra pillows, which will decrease blood circulation to the injured place. Do not lie flat during the initial days of surgery. Slight rinses of the area with salt water, beginning 24 hours after extraction, may aid in keeping the area clean and may decrease inflammation. Add half teaspoon of salt to warm water and rinse without swishing vigorously.
Tips on recovering after wisdom teeth removal.
Effective recovery is not just about controlling swelling. Keep hydrated and consume plenty of water, however, avoid straws since the suction can cause the dislodging of blood clots. You should only take soft, cool food such as yogurt, smoothies and mashed potatoes during the initial days. Cold and spicy or crunchy food should be avoided, as it may cause irritation on the surgical area.
Bottom Line
Correct post wisdom teeth surgery care is imperative in avoiding complications. Use all the prescribed drugs as instructed, including antibiotics and pain killers. Do not smoke, do not drink alcohol and do not engage in heavy physical activity within 72 hours following surgery. Keep the mouth clean, brushing around the extraction site gently.
When it comes to having your wisdom teeth extracted, selecting a skilled dental team will guarantee the optimal results and recovery. Springvale Dental Clinic offers professional wisdom teeth removal services that are accompanied with detailed aftercare guidelines enabling patients to deal with swelling and recover comfortably. We have a team of professionals who are determined to make your recovery as painless and as smooth as possible. Visit or contact us to learn more about wisdom teeth removal.