• Always take your pain medicines with food, which will help prevent nausea.

• Place gauze pads directly over the extraction site and hold into place by firmly biting. Replace the pads every 20 to 40 minutes. When little or no blood is present on gauze pads, you can stopusing them. Bleeding will decrease after three to four hours, but do not be alarmed if you notice some blood for up to 24 hours.

• Swelling is normal after a wisdom tooth extraction, and typically peaks by the third day. Reduce swelling by applying an ice pack to the side of your face for 10 minutes at a time. Switch sides. You can ice your face for the first 24 hours. Be careful not to hurt your skin.

• Keep your head elevated for three to four days, which will help minimize swelling.

• To prevent blood clots, do NOT eat for at least two hours after the surgery. Stick to clear liquids, such as broth or apple juice. Make sure liquids are not too hold or cold, especially during the first 24 hours following your surgery. Avoid oily, creamy or fatty foods in the beginning. Eat soft food (e.g. soups, mashed potatoes, eggs, fish, meat loaf) for the first week. Avoid hard, chewy, crunchy foods (e.g. popcorn, pizza crust, nuts) for at least two weeks.

• Start brushing your teeth the day after the procedure. Although your gums and teeth will be sensitive, it is important you still brush all of your teeth, but avoid the extraction sites.

• Abstain from smoking for at least one week. Not only does smoking increase bleeding, but it also makes you more susceptible to dry socket.

• Avoid vigorous physical activity for at least three days after your surgery. Slowly increase your activity after five to seven days.
   

If you experience any problems or have questions about your wisdom teeth extraction procedure, call Panhandle Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. You can reach us at any time by calling our 24-hour answering service at (806) 414-4217.