Wisdom Teeth Removal FAQs
How long do I keep the gauze pad in my mouth after wisdom teeth removal?
When your extraction is complete, your oral surgeon places a gauze pad over the extraction site. You should bite down on this for 20-25 minutes, then replace it with a new piece of moistened gauze for another 20-25 minutes. You may have to repeat this several times until the site stops bleeding. Putting pressure on the surgical site is vital to ensure a protective blood clot forms and to prevent dry sockets.
Is wisdom teeth removal painful?
Most patients remember little about their wisdom teeth removal. The surgery is not painful because the area is numb. Surgery can be performed under sedation if you choose. You will have some pain and swelling the first few days after surgery, but this is easily controlled with medication and ice packs. On post-op day three, you can switch to warm, moist compresses for any stiffness or discomfort. Pain will begin to reduce by day seven, although complete healing may take up to two weeks.
When and what can I eat after wisdom teeth removal?
We recommend a liquid diet for 24-36 hours after surgery (without the use of a straw). Avoid highly acidic foods and do not drink through a straw, vape, or smoke. You can slowly add soft foods such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, hummus, applesauce, soups, oatmeal, and smoothies, gradually building up to firmer foods such as soft pieces of bread, pastas, shredded fish or chicken, and soft-cooked vegetables. By the end of the second week, you can eat normally, although you should avoid crunchy or brittle foods until the incision is completely healed.
How long does it take to recover from wisdom teeth removal?
If you are in your teens or early twenties, you will be back to work or school within three or four days. Discomfort, bruising, and swelling should be gone by the seventh day following surgery. The older you are, the longer recovery takes. People who wait until they are in their forties or older tend to have more pain and a longer recovery time, partly because the surgery is more complicated.
What is a dry socket?
A painful dry socket can occur if the blood clot protecting the extraction site is dislodged before the area is healed. This is when the opening is still fresh and the air gets into the extraction site, irritating raw, inflamed nerves. A dry socket usually happens in the first few days after surgery and causes intense, throbbing pain. If you suspect a dry socket, contact our office immediately. We will check for infection, relieve your pain, and apply a new, medicated dressing to protect the area and prevent future irritation. The best way to prevent dry socket is by following your wisdom teeth post-operative instructions.
How much does wisdom teeth removal cost?
Each wisdom teeth extraction is different. Variables include how many teeth are removed, whether they are impacted, the difficulty of the surgery, and the type of anesthesia used. The best way to get an accurate quote for wisdom teeth removal is to consult one of our surgeons. They can provide an accurate price following a complete dental exam and x-rays.
Will my insurance cover wisdom teeth removal?
It varies from policy to policy, but your dental or medical insurance may cover some portion of wisdom teeth extraction. Our staff can help you file the appropriate paperwork and explain your payment options.
Removing your wisdom teeth now rather than later is your best chance of avoiding complications and protecting your oral health. To schedule a consultation, contact our Naples office at WestShore OMS Naples Phone Number 239-263-7474 or our Bonita Springs office at WestShore OMS Bonita Springs Phone Number 239-992-9201.
