Wisdom teeth (third molars) often show up in your late teens or twenties. When there isn’t enough room, they can push on neighbors, trap bacteria, or grow sideways. If you’re planning wisdom tooth removal in Houston, this guide covers the recovery timeline, comfort strategies, and when to call us.
Why Wisdom Teeth Come Out
- Impaction: Teeth partially covered by gums or bone collect debris and bacteria.
- Crowding or Pressure: Third molars can shift nearby teeth and affect your bite.
- Infection & Decay: Hard-to-reach areas make cleaning difficult.
- Cysts & Damage: Rarely, pathology can form around impacted teeth.
The Procedure In Brief
After a consultation and imaging, we plan your wisdom tooth removal with comfort in mind. Local anesthesia and, when appropriate, sedation keep you relaxed. Incisions are small, bone removal is conservative, and sutures may be placed to aid healing.
The First 24 Hours
- Bleeding: Bite gently on gauze; small oozing is normal.
- Swelling: Peaks at 48–72 hours; use cold compresses intermittently.
- Rest: Keep your head elevated and activity minimal.
- Diet: Stick with cool, soft foods and plenty of water.
Days 2–3
- Swelling & Stiffness: Usually the height of swelling; continue cold, then switch to warm compresses after 72 hours.
- Comfort: Take medications as directed; avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Hygiene: Begin gentle rinses (not vigorous) with salt water after 24 hours; don’t disturb the clot.
Days 4–7
- Back To Routine: Many return to work or school.
- Diet: Add soft scrambled eggs, yogurt, and tender pasta.
- Mouth Opening: Gentle stretching can help relieve tightness.
Week 2
- Activity: Most normal activities resume; sutures may dissolve or be removed.
- Spots To Watch: If a dull ache turns into sharp pain with bad taste several days after surgery, call us to check for dry socket.
Comfort Do’s And Don’ts
- Do: Use cold compresses early, then warm compresses later; hydrate; sleep with head elevated; keep the area clean.
- Don’t: Use straws, spit forcefully, or smoke (negative pressure can dislodge the clot). Avoid crunchy chips or seeds that can lodge in the site.
Protecting Healing Sites
Gentle brushing around the area after 24 hours keeps plaque away. A water flosser on a low setting after the first week can improve cleanliness without disrupting healing.
When To Call Us
- Fever, persistent or increasing swelling after day 3, uncontrolled pain, or prolonged bleeding
- Numbness that doesn’t improve
- Foul taste or odor with rising pain (possible dry socket)
Benefits At A Glance
- Relief from pressure and crowding
- Lower risk of infection around impacted teeth
- Easier hygiene and fresher breath
- Protection of neighboring teeth and bone
Make Recovery Predictable
Questions about wisdom tooth removal in Houston or your post-op plan? Call Elite Dental Wellness at (713) 789-8680 to Call Us Today.
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