Everyone has at least one story about their wisdom teeth that they like to present the way grandfathers do their war stories. Indeed, third molars or wisdom teeth have a tendency to make our lives more difficult, and they can do this in an astounding number of ways. Usually only a wisdom tooth extraction can solve the problem, which is frequently an oral surgical affair. In this article, we hope to prepare you for what you can expect from your wisdom tooth extraction surgery.

Pain after wisdom tooth extraction- is it normal?

Usually, surgical extraction of lower wisdom teeth are painful, especially if the intervention is surgical. It is important to note that although pain is a normal side effect of this dental treatment, if the pain lasts longer than one week, you have to go and get an appointment with your dentist. The cessation of pain is a normal part of the healing process, so if you keep all of the post-operative instructions, the pain should subside in due time.

When can I eat after a surgical wisdom tooth extraction?

There are no strict guidelines for when you can start eating after a surgical wisdom tooth extraction- as soon as the anaesthetic wears off, you can start eating. The 4-5 days following a wisdom tooth extraction you have to be very discerning of what you eat- dairy products, hot, spicy foods are off limits, as are foods that can easily pollute the surgical site (such as nuts, sticky foods, bread or pastries). Make sure you drink lots of fluids during this time, preferably sugar free stuff like water or tea. 

What guidelines will I have to follow after a wisdom tooth extraction?

1. Oral hygiene

It is of the utmost importance that you maintain a rigorous oral hygiene regiment. Make sure you clean even more thoroughly with a toothbrush and with dental floss then you usually would. Do not brush the surgical site for 24 hours and afterwards only gently, with a very soft toothbrush only, with gentle circular motions. Do not rinse the site or suck on the hole!

2. Physical labour

For a few days after the operation, you will need to avoid physical labour, or any strenuous physical activity. No gym and avoid bending down for things, as gravity can loosen the blood clot.

3. Swelling

It is not rare to have some degree of swelling after a surgical extraction. This can be dealt with by applying a cold compress to the swollen area for a few minutes. After 10-15 minutes of rest, you can repeat the procedure as many times as you like.

4. Medication

Pain can be reduced by any medication that causes headache relief. The instructions above are frequently supplemented with a course of antibiotics.