Do’s and Don’ts After Wisdom Teeth Removal in San Francisco

Whether you're a native of San Francisco or just had your procedure done here, recovering from wisdom teeth surgery requires proper care to avoid complications and speed up healing. The recovery phase is just as important as the procedure itself—how you care for your mouth in the first few days can make all the difference. With the right post-operative habits, you can reduce discomfort, prevent issues like dry socket, and ensure a smoother healing process.

In our previous blog, we discussed the common signs that it might be time to remove your wisdom teeth. In this blog, we’ll cover the key do’s and don’ts after wisdom teeth removal to help ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications like dry socket or infection.

Tips for Healing After Wisdom Teeth Removal

A smooth recovery after wisdom teeth removal starts with good aftercare. While the procedure itself is important, what you do in the days that follow plays a key role in how quickly and comfortably you heal. From managing swelling to choosing the right foods, these simple tips can help you recover faster and avoid common post-surgery issues.

Do’s After Wisdom Teeth Removal

1. Follow Your Oral Surgeon’s Instructions

Your San Francisco oral surgeon will give you specific aftercare steps based on your procedure and health history. These instructions are designed to protect the surgical site and help your body heal naturally. While general advice can be helpful, your surgeon’s guidance should always take priority for the best recovery.

2. Use Ice Packs Early On

Swelling is normal after wisdom teeth surgery. To control it, apply an ice pack to your cheeks—20 minutes on, 20 minutes off—for the first 24 to 48 hours. This reduces inflammation and helps manage pain. After a couple of days, switch to warm compresses to soothe any jaw stiffness.

3. Stick to Soft Foods

Mild discomfort is normal in the first few days after surgery, so stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, applesauce, yogurt, scrambled eggs, and smoothies—just avoid using straws. Stay away from spicy, crunchy, or hard foods, as they can irritate the healing area and slow recovery.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking enough water is vital after wisdom teeth extraction, as it helps your body heal and regenerate tissue. Drink around 8 cups of water daily in small sips to protect the surgical site. Avoid straws, as suction can dislodge the blood clot, and skip carbonated, caffeinated, or sugary drinks to prevent irritation and infection.

5. Take Prescribed Medications as Directed

Painkillers and antibiotics (if prescribed) should be taken exactly as your dentist or oral surgeon instructs. These medications help control pain, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of infection. Skipping doses or stopping early can lead to complications, so make sure to complete the full course for a smoother recovery.

If you received oral sedation in San Francisco during your procedure, your post-op instructions may also include guidance about when it's safe to resume driving or normal activities, so be sure to follow those closely.

Don'ts After Wisdom Teeth Removal

1. Don’t Use Straws

Drinking through a straw provides suction, which can help to remove the blood clot that has formed over the extraction site. This clot is necessary for healing, and removing it too soon might result in a painful condition known as dry socket. It's best to drink from a cup and take small, careful sips.

2. Avoid Smoking or Vaping

Smoking and vaping can slow down healing by reducing blood flow and disrupting the blood clotting needed for recovery. This increases the risk of dry socket and infection. To heal properly and avoid complications, it's best to avoid these habits during the recovery period.

3. Skip Spicy, Crunchy, or Hot Foods

Your mouth is sensitive post-surgery, so avoid foods that may cause discomfort or infection. To protect the healing site, stick to soft, cool, and bland foods during the first few days.

4. Don’t Touch the Surgery Spot

As your mouth heals, you might feel curious about the area, but avoid touching it with your fingers or tongue. Doing so can introduce bacteria, increase the risk of infection, or disrupt the blood clot that’s helping your gums heal. To prevent complications, let the area heal naturally without interference.

Conclusion

Recovering from wisdom teeth removal can be straightforward with the right care. By following these do’s and don'ts, you can recover more quickly and avoid complications. For a safe and relaxed wisdom teeth removal experience, connect with our trusted San Francisco professionals today. Need help with wisdom teeth in San Francisco? Contact us at 415-318-1818 to schedule your appointment today.