Palm Family Dentistry
A man smiling in the dentist's office | Dentist Baton Rouge

What to Do (and What Not to Do) After Wisdom Teeth Removal

August 21, 2023
|
A woman getting a dental exam | dentist Prairieville LA

Wisdom teeth extractions in Baton Rouge or Prairieville are sometimes necessary if they don’t erupt correctly or push on other teeth. Called third molars, wisdom teeth tend to erupt in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth are located at the back of the mouth and are unnecessary for chewing or smile aesthetics.

If you need wisdom tooth extractions (up to four in some cases), we ensure you’re comfortable and rely on powerful local anesthesia, so you’ll not feel any pain.

After tooth extractions, you should take steps to promote healing and fast recovery. Let’s explore what to do and (not to do) after wisdom tooth extraction.

About Wisdom Teeth Extractions

If you’re fortunate, your wisdom teeth will erupt without trouble. But if they only partially erupt, you’re at risk for infection. Additionally, if they encroach on other teeth, you risk harming those teeth or enduring pain.

If you need wisdom teeth extractions, your Baton Rouge or Prairieville dentist will use image-guided technology to aid the procedure and ensure a predictable outcome.

What to Do After Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions – No two extractions are the same, so follow any customized instructions your dentist provides.

Take Any Recommended or Prescribed Medications on Time – Don’t skip medications or medication schedules provided by your dentist even if you feel fine.

Keep Your Mouth Clean – Be sure to brush and floss as usual, but do not brush the extraction site for the first day or two. However, it would be best if you still rinsed your mouth, allowing the water to drain into the sink instead of spitting.

Stick to Soft Foods – For the first few days, eat soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing.

Use Sterile Gauze for Any Bleeding – Gently biting on sterile gauze is the best way to stop minor bleeding.

What NOT to Do after Wisdom Teeth ExtractionsPicture of a cartoon tooth

Don’t Smoke – For the first day or two, your incision is healing, and smoking disrupts that process.

Don’t Drink Through a Straw – Sucking motions during the first few days can dislodge the healing blood clot.

Don’t Chew on the Extraction Site – Chewing on the extraction during the first few days may cause bleeding and disrupt healing.  

For Teeth Extractions Near Me, Contact Us

We provide gentle tooth extractions in a supportive environment. Contact our dental team to schedule an evaluation with the dentist to learn more.

If you have difficulty using our website, please email us or call us at (225) 927-7545
View the ADA Accessibility Statement