After Wisdom Teeth

Dr. Patrick Morrissey will provide you with instructions following your wisdom teeth extraction in Lake Oswego, Oregon. These instructions will help you heal and recover so that you can return to your daily activities as soon as possible. Contact Boones Ferry Dental at 503-699-6699 if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with our dentist.

After Wisdom Tooth Removal 

We recommend that you:

• Do not rinse or spit for 24 hours after your procedure.
• Do not touch the surgical site with your tongue or fingers.
• Use ice packs or cold compresses at 20 minute intervals to relieve swelling and discomfort.
• Use mild pain relievers as needed (such as Tylenol, ibuprofen or Advil)
• Use prescribe medications and antibiotics as directed.
• Stay hydrated.
• Do not use a straw to drink.
• Avoid smoking or the use of other tobacco products for at least five days following your procedure.
• Avoid strenuous activities – you should not exercise for three to four days after your procedure.
• Keep your head elevated for the first day after treatment.
• If you experience stiffness in your jaw muscles, apply warm moist heat to the area.
• After the first day use a warm saltwater rinse after eating. We recommend ½ tsp. in an 8 oz. glass of water.
• Maintain a soft diet. Do not eat anything that could get stuck in your teeth (nuts, seeds, rice, popcorn, sticky candy, etc.) for several days as you recover.

Other Instructions

• Some bleeding is normal – you may find redness in your saliva or experience minimal bleeding for 24 to 48 hours. Applying gauze with firm pressure should help control and halt this bleeding, but if bleeding persists or becomes heavy please contact our office.
• Some swelling is also normal, and you may notice that your swelling increases for two to three days before slowing diminishing. You can manage swelling and discomfort by applying an ice pack or cold compress at 20 minute intervals for the first 24 hours. After this switch to warm, moist heat.
• You should begin taking pain medication within two to three hours after your procedure, before the anesthetic you receive wears off. This will help manage your discomfort.
• Our dentist may also prescribe pain relievers, antibiotics or other medication – use this as directed.
• Bring someone with you to drive you home after your procedure, and do not drive yourself anywhere if you have been prescribed pain medication.
• Maintain a soft diet initially. As your diet is limited by your discomfort, you can return to a normal diet as you feel comfortable.

Please do NOT accept advice from friends during your recovery. If you experience pain, discomfort or have questions, call our office and speak with our dentist and team. This ensures that you receive accurate information and more effective solutions.