When can I brush my teeth after wisdom tooth removal?

Patients can gently brush their teeth the day after wisdom tooth surgery, avoiding the extraction sites. After 24 hours, warm salt water rinses can help reduce bacteria, but vigorous rinsing or spitting should be avoided until the dentist confirms it is safe.

When can I return to work or school after wisdom teeth removal?

Most patients can return to work or school within one to three days after wisdom teeth removal, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Jobs involving physical labour may require additional recovery time, and patients should listen to their body to avoid increased swelling or discomfort.

Your Dentist in Red Deer for Wisdom Tooth Extraction | 22nd @ Taylor

Q: What should I expect in the first 24 hours after wisdom tooth extraction surgery?

In the first 24 hours after wisdom tooth removal, swelling, bleeding, and discomfort are normal. Patients should follow their dentist’s care plan, apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals, keep gauze in place as directed, avoid strenuous activity, and take prescribed or recommended pain medication. Rest and gentle care during this time support faster healing.

Q: What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

After wisdom teeth removal, patients should eat soft foods that require little chewing, such as yoghurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, applesauce, soup, and smoothies without straws. Spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods should be avoided until healing progresses and the dentist advises reintroducing solid foods.

Q: How do I reduce swelling after wisdom teeth removal?

Swelling after wisdom teeth removal can be reduced by using ice packs for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 to 48 hours. Sleeping with the head elevated and staying hydrated can also help. After two days, warm compresses may be used if swelling continues.

Q: What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?

Dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing bone and nerves and causing severe pain. It can be avoided by not smoking, avoiding straws, not spitting forcefully, eating soft foods, maintaining oral hygiene, and following post-operative instructions. Patients should contact their dentist immediately if they suspect dry socket.

RedDeerDentist
7 days ago
3 min read

Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common dental procedures performed in our office; however, many patients are apprehensive about the procedure. At 22nd at Taylor Dental, we understand that knowing what to expect can make all the difference in your comfort and peace of mind. We take pride in being your local dentist in Red Deer, and that's why we're going to answer some of the most common questions about wisdom teeth recovery to help you heal quickly and confidently.

A wisdom tooth, partially erupted. Call 22nd at Taylor Dental in Red Deer for wisdom tooth extractions.

What should I expect in the first 24 hours after wisdom tooth extraction surgery?

On the first day, some swelling, bleeding, and discomfort are normal. Follow your dentist’s care plan closely. Apply ice packs to your cheeks in 20-minute intervals and keep gauze in place as directed to control bleeding. Avoid strenuous activity and take any prescribed or recommended pain medication as needed. Proper rest and gentle care during this period lay the foundation for a faster, more comfortable recovery. Plan to relax after your appointment.

What can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?

For the first few days, stick to soft foods that require little to no chewing. Yoghurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, applesauce, soup and smoothies (without straws) are great options. Avoid spicy, crunchy or chewy foods that might irritate the extraction site or dislodge the blood clot. As healing progresses, you can slowly reintroduce solid foods, based on your comfort and your dentist’s advice.

When can I brush my teeth after the procedure?

You may gently brush the day after surgery, taking care to avoid the extraction sites. After the first 24 hours, rinsing with warm salt water several times a day helps reduce bacteria and keeps your mouth fresh. However, avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting until your dentist confirms it’s safe. Keeping the surgical area clean promotes faster healing and helps prevent infection.

How do I reduce swelling after wisdom teeth removal?

Ice packs are your best friend for the first 24–48 hours. Use them for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off to minimize swelling and discomfort. Sleeping with your head elevated on pillows can also help. After two days, you may switch to warm compresses if swelling persists. Staying hydrated and resting properly further supports recovery.

What is dry socket and how do I avoid it?

Dry socket happens when the blood clot protecting the wisdom tooth extraction site is dislodged, leaving the bone and nerves exposed. It causes intense, radiating pain and delays healing. You can avoid dry socket by not smoking, using straws, or spitting forcefully. Eat soft foods, keep your mouth clean and follow all post-op instructions from your dentist. If you suspect dry socket, contact your dental team immediately for treatment.

When can I return to work or school following wisdom tooth extraction

Most patients feel ready to return to normal routines within one to three days, depending on the complexity of the extraction. However, if your work involves physical labour or bending, you may need additional recovery time. Listen to your body — pushing too soon can increase swelling or discomfort.

Every smile heals differently, and having a trusted team makes all the difference. At 22nd at Taylor Dental in Red Deer, we provide personalized aftercare advice and follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery stays on track.

If you have questions about recovery or want to schedule your wisdom teeth removal with a compassionate and experienced Red Deer dentist, we’re here to help. Visit our contact page to book your appointment today!