Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Recovery Care and Dry Socket Prevention
After wisdom tooth extraction: avoid straws and vigorous rinsing for 24 hours, sleep elevated. Dry socket (severe pain at 3-5 days) occurs from blood clot loss.
Post-extraction care for wisdom tooth removal: - No straws for at least 24-48 hours (suction can dislodge the blood clot, causing dry socket) - Liquid or very soft diet for the first 24 hours - No vigorous rinsing for 24 hours - Sleep with head elevated and on the opposite side from the extraction Why oral wounds heal well: Saliva contains natural healing properties, the mouth has superior blood supply compared to skin, and the moist environment promotes faster tissue repair. Dissolvable stitches: These dissolve on their own in 1-4 weeks and do not require a return visit for removal. Dry socket: A painful complication occurring 3-5 days after extraction when the blood clot is lost or fails to form. Characterized by severe, radiating pain. Requires a dental visit for medicated dressing placement.