How long is the recovery after wisdom tooth surgery?

05 Jun

How long is the recovery after wisdom tooth surgery?

Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common dental surgeries, and many people wonder: how long does it take to recover? The answer varies depending on several factors, but generally, recovery is a gradual process that takes about one to two weeks.

What to Expect in the First Few Days

The first 24 to 72 hours after surgery are usually the most intense. During this time, it’s normal to experience:

Swelling and bruising around the jaw and cheeks
Mild to moderate pain and discomfort
Some bleeding or oozing from the extraction sites
Difficulty opening your mouth fully
Possible numbness if local anesthesia was used

Following your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions — like resting, applying ice packs, eating soft foods, and avoiding strenuous activity — can help minimize discomfort and speed up healing.

The First Week

By the end of the first week, swelling and pain typically begin to decrease significantly. Most people can return to their normal daily activities but should still avoid anything that might disrupt healing, such as smoking, drinking through straws, or eating hard, crunchy foods.

Full Recovery Timeline

Complete healing of the gum tissue usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks, but the underlying bone can take several months to fully regenerate and settle. Most patients feel almost back to normal within 7 to 10 days.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Keep your mouth clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery
Take prescribed pain medications as directed
Avoid alcohol and smoking, which can delay healing
Stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days
Get plenty of rest

When to Contact Your Dentist

If you experience severe pain, prolonged bleeding, fever, or signs of infection beyond the first few days, it’s important to reach out to your oral surgeon or dentist promptly.

In summary:
Recovery from wisdom tooth surgery usually takes about one to two weeks for most of the symptoms to subside, with full tissue healing occurring over several weeks. Following post-op care instructions carefully can make the process smoother and more comfortable.

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