We value your comfort & safety. Learn About Our COVID Protocols

A Complete Guide on How to Soothe Wisdom Tooth Removal Pain

Asad A | October 22, 2024

Just when you thought you were done with losing teeth, your dentist informs you that it’s time for your wisdom teeth to come out. 

The recovery process varies from person to person. Factors like how smoothly the extraction went and how well you follow post-surgery instructions can greatly affect your healing time. 

While most people recover within two weeks, there are ways you can learn how to soothe wisdom tooth removal pain during your recovery period.

Why Are Wisdom Teeth Problematic?

When wisdom teeth emerge in adulthood, most of the other teeth have already settled into their permanent positions, often leaving little room for these new molars. As a result, wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure. 

If a wisdom tooth only partially breaks through the gum, it can trap food particles, making it difficult to clean properly. This can increase the risk of infection or decay, even for those who brush thoroughly.

Even fully erupted wisdom teeth aren't free from issues. If they grow at an odd angle, they can irritate the surrounding gums or the inside of the mouth. They may also put pressure on neighboring teeth.

How to Soothe Wisdom Tooth Removal Pain

Warm Salt Water Rinse

A salt water rinse at room temperature is a time-honored remedy for various oral issues, from sore throats to discomfort after wisdom tooth extraction. 

Gargling with salt water is a gentle and effective way to eliminate bacteria in the mouth, prevent infection, and soothe pain. It also helps maintain your mouth’s pH balance, creating an alkaline environment that discourages bacterial growth. 

Apply Ice

Wisdom tooth extractions often lead to significant swelling and discomfort, but applying ice can help reduce both. You can use an ice pack, an unopened bag of frozen vegetables, or even ice cubes in a plastic bag wrapped in a towel.

Place a cold compress on the cheek near the extraction area for pain relief and reduced inflammation. However, don’t keep the ice pack on your face for longer than 20 minutes at a time. This method is most effective within the first 36 hours after your wisdom tooth extraction.

Take Painkillers

One of the fastest ways to ease discomfort after wisdom tooth removal is by taking painkillers. These medications are specifically designed to reduce physical pain.

Your dentist may prescribe pain medication, or you can opt for over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions given by your pharmacist or dentist.

Eat the Right Food

Although your appetite may be low after surgery, proper nutrition is still crucial. Even if you wait until the day after the procedure, it's important to eat. Choosing the right foods can support your healing and help you avoid complications like disrupting blood clots or stitches within the first 24 hours after extraction.

Stick to foods that require minimal chewing to prevent any disturbance. As hunger returns, gradually incorporate soft foods into your meals. 

Some comforting and safe food options include:

  • Smooth soups and broths
  • Yogurt and pudding
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Mashed bananas and applesauce
  • Cottage cheese
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Smoothies

Avoid Smoking

Avoid smoking after your wisdom tooth extraction, as it can interfere with the healing process and is a leading cause of disrupting the protective blood clots in the extraction site. Smoking increases the risk of developing painful dry sockets. Additionally, this recovery period presents an ideal opportunity to quit smoking and adopt healthier habits.

Refrain from Strenuous Activity

It may be tempting to jump back into your regular routine after surgery, but it’s important to be cautious with your post-wisdom tooth extraction care. While you can slowly resume daily activities as you feel up to it, it's best to avoid any strenuous exercise or exertion for at least a few days.

Prioritize Rest

Your body’s natural healing process thrives on proper rest. After a wisdom tooth procedure, it's crucial to limit physical activity for at least 36 hours to help ease discomfort.

We recommend taking at least two days off from work to aid in your recovery, especially if your job involves physical labor or extensive talking. Giving the extraction site time to heal is essential for a smooth recovery.

When to Contact Your Dentist

Here’s a list of symptoms that indicate you should contact your dentist regarding pain or complications after a wisdom tooth extraction:

  • Intense pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain relievers or persists beyond a few days.
  • Swelling that continues to worsen or does not start to decrease after 48 hours.
  • A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, which may indicate an infection.
  • Any discharge of pus or foul-smelling fluid from the extraction site.
  • Increased difficulty in opening your mouth, which may indicate swelling or infection.
  • Continuous bleeding that lasts longer than 24 hours or if the bleeding suddenly increases after initially subsiding.
  • Persistent bad breath that doesn’t improve with oral hygiene practices.

Conclusion

The days following a wisdom tooth extraction can be tough, but with the right care, you can reduce discomfort and speed up recovery. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this blog, you can learn how to soothe wisdom tooth removal pain.  

Keep in mind that your well-being is a top priority, and taking the right steps during recovery can lead to better oral health in the long run.

Experience Seamless Wisdom Tooth Removal at Dental Arts of Florida

Save yourself from the pain after a wisdom tooth removal by choosing the experts at Dental Arts of Florida for your wisdom tooth extraction. 

Book your appointment today.

 FAQs

Yes, applying ice packs to the cheek near the extraction site can reduce swelling and numb the pain.

It's best to stick to soft foods to avoid irritating the extraction site and to minimize chewing.

Dental Arts of Florida

Dental Arts of Florida

Office Hours
Monday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Wednesday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Friday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday
9:00am - 5:00pm
Available most Saturdays and Sundays.
New Patient Only: (904) 822-9786
All Other Callers: (904) 998-9820

Any Questions?
Send us a Message!

  • This field is hidden when viewing the form
    MM slash DD slash YYYY
  • This field is hidden when viewing the form
    MM slash DD slash YYYY

Privacy Policy: We hate SPAM and promise to keep your email address safe.
Please call us at (904) 822-9786‬  if you have any problems with the form.
Subscribe To Our Newsletter!

This field is hidden when viewing the form
MM slash DD slash YYYY
This field is hidden when viewing the form
MM slash DD slash YYYY

© 2025 Dental Arts of Florida. General, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, Jacksonville, FL. | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy

Dental Marketing by WEB MARKETING FOR DENTISTS

crossmenu Skip to content