Wisdom tooth extraction is a dental procedure that people often feel anxious about. With the right care and attention, though, you have little to worry about. Whether you’re preparing for your procedure or recovering from it, understanding the dos and don’ts can make all the difference.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you in your search for the right clinic for wisdom tooth surgery in Singapore.
Do’s for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Follow pre-operative instructions
Before undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, it’s essential to adhere to your oral surgeon’s pre-operative instructions. These instructions often include:
- Medication: Take prescribed medications as directed, especially antibiotics or pain relievers.
- Fasting: Follow fasting guidelines to ensure you have an empty stomach before anaesthesia.
- Arrange transportation: Plan for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you may be groggy from anaesthesia.
Post-operative care
After wisdom tooth extraction, proper post-operative care is crucial for healing and preventing infection. Key aspects of post-operative care include:
- Bite down gently: Bite on gauze pads to control bleeding for the first few hours after surgery.
- Apply ice packs: Use ice packs on the outside of your face to reduce swelling.
- Rest and recover: Take it easy for the first 24-48 hours, avoiding strenuous activities.
- Maintain oral hygiene: Brush gently around the extraction site and rinse with salt water after 24 hours.
- Eat soft foods: Stick to a diet of soft, nutritious foods like yoghurt, soup, and mashed potatoes.
Monitor symptoms
Pay close attention to your body and monitor for any unusual symptoms after wisdom tooth extraction. Contact your oral surgeon if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding: Bleeding that doesn’t stop with gentle pressure.
- Severe pain: Pain that worsens instead of improving with prescribed medications.
- Fever: A persistent fever could indicate an infection.
- Swelling: Excessive swelling that doesn’t decrease over time.
- Numbness: Persistent numbness in your lips, tongue, or chin.
Follow-up appointments
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your oral surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns. These appointments allow your oral surgery team to ensure that your recovery is on track and intervene if any complications arise.
Don’ts for Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Avoid smoking
Smoking can delay healing after wisdom tooth extraction and increase the risk of complications such as dry socket. Refrain from smoking or using tobacco products for at least 72 hours after surgery, and ideally longer to support healing.
Don’t touch extraction site
Avoid touching the extraction site with your fingers or tongue, as this can introduce bacteria and interfere with clot formation. Let the area heal naturally to minimise the risk of infection.
Don’t drink with a straw
Drinking through a straw creates suction that can dislodge blood clots and delay healing. Stick to sipping fluids from a cup to protect the extraction site during the initial days of recovery.
Avoid hard foods
During the first few days after wisdom tooth extraction, avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can irritate the extraction site or dislodge blood clots. Opt for soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow.
No vigorous rinsing
Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for the first 24 hours after surgery, as this can disrupt blood clot formation and lead to complications like dry socket. Gentle rinsing with salt water after the first day can promote healing without disturbing the extraction site.
Avoid alcohol and carbonated drinks
Alcohol and carbonated beverages can irritate the extraction site and increase the risk of infection. Refrain from consuming these beverages during the initial days of recovery to support optimal healing.
Wisdom tooth extraction in Singapore
By prioritising proper care and adhering to professional advice, you can minimise discomfort, reduce the risk of complications, and achieve optimal oral health outcomes. While these do’s and don’ts can help, you may still have any questions or concerns about wisdom tooth extraction. Don’t hesitate to consult your dental provider for personalised guidance, support and help with other matters, such as the cost of wisdom tooth surgery in Singapore.
At Specialist Oral Surgeons, we prioritise the smooth recovery of all our patients. With his background in maxillofacial surgery, Dr Lim Kheng Ann provides comprehensive care tailored to your unique facial anatomy and dental health. From assessing the extraction site to follow-up appointments, he’s here to guide you through every step of your treatment.
