Oral Health: Care Tips After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom teeth, or impacted wisdom teeth, are third molar teeth which start emerging from the ages of 17 to 25. These teeth commonly sprout through the gums at an angle, causing irritation and damage the adjacent teeth. If left untreated, it can even cause tooth decay and gum disease.  

After having your wisdom teeth extracted, a good dental hygiene routine is invaluable in the healing process. Regular maintenance keeps your teeth and gums healthy for as long as possible. Here are a few tips you might need to implement in your day to day oral routine 

1. Brushing your teeth twice a day is an integral part of a good oral hygiene routine. While that’s true, there’s a little to it than just the frequency of the times you brush. We recommend you to hold your toothbrush at a 45° angle so that the bristles get in between the gums and teeth without irritating the point where they meet. It also helps to clean the teeth thoroughly. 
   
   
2. The kind of toothbrush you use also makes a difference in If you can afford it, it’s a good idea to invest in an electric toothbrush. The automated motions of the bristles are an stellar way to make sure that you get into those tiny crevices you might otherwise miss if you brush manually.
   
   
3. Along with brushing, flossing too holds importance in maintaining good dental health. It would be best if you wrapped the floss around your thumb and forefinger to go back and forth between each of your teeth. Bend the floss into a c-shape so you are providing maximum cleaning power.
   
   
4. Our team recommend that you brush your tongue as well to get rid of any unwanted bacteria.
   
   
5. For the first 24 hours post-surgery, avoid rinsing your mouth, spitting or drinking hot drinks as these might dislodge the blood clots at the dry socket which help the healing process. 
   
   
6. You should stick to eating soft foods for a few days and chew with your other teeth in terms of diet.
   
   
7. Avoid, or quit, smoking and drinking alcohol for the first 24 hours after your wisdom tooth surgery.
   
   
8. After the 24 hours, you should gently rinse the extraction site with an antiseptic mouthwash and repeat this regularly over the next few days, especially after eating. You could also rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of salt and warm water reduce gum inflammation and soreness. 
   
   
9. Use an ice pack on your cheeks to reduce pain and discomfort.
   
   
10. You should avoid strenuous activity and exercise for a few days. Get as much rest as you can and use painkillers, recommended by your dentist if you are in unbearable pain. 

With our Raffles Place clinic, you are secured after a wisdom teeth removal procedure. Our staff and dentists are always willing to help you, whether explaining the procedures or advising you of the post-operative care instructions. If you follow these tips, the recovery time for your impacted wisdom tooth will be sped up and you will be back on your feet in no time. If you think you might need a wisdom tooth removal, call us today!