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Post-Operative Instructions: Wisdom Teeth Removal

These are the recovery instructions our oral and maxillofacial surgeons give patients after wisdom teeth removal at Nevada Oral & Facial Surgery in Las Vegas, Henderson and Summerlin. Follow the instructions your surgeon gave you at your appointment. If anything here differs from what you were told in person, call us.

Bleeding

Bleeding is expected after your surgery. To manage any bleeding, place gauze over each of the surgical sites and firmly bite down for 30 minutes. This process can be repeated as necessary. You can also bite down on moist tea bags. If you have been given a partial or denture, this will also help control bleeding. Contact our office right away if you experience excessive and prolonged bleeding.

Swelling

Some swelling is normal and may also include bruising around your face. This will be most noticeable 2-3 days after surgery but will subside. To control swelling, apply an ice pack to one or both sides of your face for 30 minutes at a time while you are awake. After 48 hours, switch to applying heat instead.

Numbness

Temporary numbness around the chin, eyes, and tongue is normal. While this may persist for a few days up to several months, the numbness is rarely permanent. Contact us if you have concerns or you experience changes in these sensations.

Pain

You may experience a significant amount of discomfort for the first few days after surgery as well as a sore throat and elevated temperature. This pain is normal and can be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Avoid taking medication with alcohol or on an empty stomach to minimize nausea. If you experience worsening pain after four days or develop a fever, contact our office immediately.

Oral Hygiene

Refrain from brushing your remaining teeth or gums for the first 24 hours. This will help to encourage healthy blood clots to form. Warm saltwater rinses can resume after the first day and should be completed 5-6 times daily and especially after meals. If you have a partial or denture, it should be removed before rinsing. Brush any remaining teeth while being careful to not disturb the surgical sites.

Diet

Immediately after surgery, resume drinking the recommended amount of water each day to avoid dehydration. Nutritionally rich soft foods can be eaten on the day of surgery. Avoid hot foods and liquids. You can return to a normal diet within a few days but continue eating wholesome meals to assist your body in the healing process.

Activity

Avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise for at least two days after surgery. This can harm the surgical sites. During rest, whether sitting or lying down, be sure to keep your head elevated. Avoid driving if you are taking pain medication and do not bend over or lift heavy objects.

When to Call Us

Call our office if you experience excessive or prolonged bleeding, pain that worsens after four days, a fever, or any change in numbness that concerns you. Call (702) 842-0472.

For instructions covering other procedures, see our post-operative instructions.

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