What to Expect 72 Hours After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, but the aftermath can be a mystery to many. In this blog, we'll guide you through what to expect in the first 72 hours following your extraction, and how to ensure a swift, comfortable recovery.

Immediate Aftermath: 0-24 Hours

In the first 24 hours following your wisdom tooth extraction, it's normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. It's crucial to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Make sure to follow your dentist's instructions regarding pain management and wound care.

During this period, maintain a soft food diet to avoid irritating the extraction site. Foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes are excellent choices. Avoid hot foods and drinks which can dissolve the blood clot forming in the extraction site.

Healing Progress: 24-48 Hours

By the second day, the initial discomfort should start to subside. Swelling may peak at this point, but cold compresses can help to manage this. Continue to eat soft foods and avoid smoking or drinking alcohol, which can slow down the healing process.

It's important to start gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean. However, avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which can dislodge the blood clot and lead to dry socket – a painful condition that can delay healing.

Recovery Continues: 48-72 Hours

By the third day, you should notice a significant improvement in your symptoms. While some residual swelling and discomfort may linger, these should be manageable and continue to lessen with each passing day. You can gradually reintroduce more solid foods into your diet, but continue to avoid hard or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site.

Keep up with your oral hygiene routine, being careful to avoid the extraction site. If you notice any signs of infection, such as persistent pain, fever, or discharge from the extraction site, contact your dentist immediately.

Long-term Healing: Beyond 72 Hours

After the initial 72 hours, your recovery will continue for several weeks as the extraction site fully heals. It's important to keep following your dentist's instructions and maintain good oral hygiene.

Remember, everyone's healing process is different. Don't be alarmed if your recovery doesn't exactly match this timeline. What's important is to listen to your body and contact your dentist if you have any concerns.

Make Your Recovery Comfortable with Urban Dental Studio

At Urban Dental Studio in Clarksburg, MD, our team, led by Dr. Anum Zaidi, is committed to making your wisdom tooth extraction as comfortable as possible. We're here to answer all your questions and ensure you feel prepared for your procedure. Don't hesitate to reach out to us at (240) 308-8588 to request an appointment. Your comfort and health are our top priority.