While getting through wisdom tooth removal in El Paso may seem like the biggest challenge, proper post-operative care is just as important. Having the right essentials can make all the difference in the healing process as well as in your comfort.
The team at 915 Smile Studio wants this process to be as smooth as possible, so we’ve put together a guide to six must-haves to keep on hand after your procedure. Set yourself up for success after a wisdom tooth extraction.
1. Gauze and Medication
After surgery, managing bleeding and pain will be your priority. We can provide you with gauze to place over the extraction site, which helps control bleeding and promote clot formation—a crucial step in the healing process. Make sure to have extra gauze at home to switch out as needed (typically every 30-45 minutes until the bleeding slows).
Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications will also be critical. Follow our dentist’s instructions carefully on dosage and timing. Staying ahead of discomfort in the first 24–48 hours can significantly improve your experience.
Pro Tip
It’s easy to lose track of time, so set reminders to stay on schedule with your medication and avoid the pain getting on top of you.
2. Ice Packs
Swelling is a natural part of the recovery process after wisdom tooth surgery, especially in the first few days. Ice packs can work wonders in reducing swelling and relieving discomfort. Consistency is key during the first 24 hours after wisdom tooth removal in El Paso at our office.
Simply wrap an ice pack in a clean towel and gently apply it to the outside of your cheek near the surgical area for 15-20 minutes at a time. Do not try to apply ice directly on the area inside your mouth.
Pro Tip
If you don’t have an ice pack, a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel can be a great alternative.
3. Soft Foods
You’ve no doubt heard about the post-wisdom tooth extraction diet. Eating is a tricky task after the procedure, but you need to nourish your body to give it fuel for recovery. Stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and won’t irritate the surgical sites. Some excellent options include:
- Mashed Potatoes
- Scrambled Eggs
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Smoothies
Steer clear of straws—suction can dislodge healing blood clots and cause dry socket, a condition where the bone and nerve are exposed after an extraction. Avoid crunchy, spicy, or sticky foods that might get stuck in the extraction site or delay healing.
Pro Tip
Keep a variety of options on hand so that you don’t have to stress about what to eat. This is where preparing in advance can pay off.
4. Gentle Oral Hygiene Products
As much as you may not want to, you have to keep your mouth clean during recovery from wisdom tooth removal in El Paso. You just need to approach oral hygiene with care. 915 Smile Studio’s dentist will likely recommend starting with warm salt water rinses 24 hours after surgery. Use one teaspoon of salt mixed into a cup of warm water. Gently swish and then let the water flow out of your mouth without spitting (another possible cause of dry socket).
For brushing, opt for a soft-bristle toothbrush and avoid the extraction site until it’s fully healed. An alcohol-free mouthwash can also be useful for freshening breath without irritating the gums, but make sure to consult us first.
Pro Tip
Ask our team if a syringe-style rinse is recommended for cleaning the extraction site. We can guide you on how to use it safely.
5. Emergency Contact Information
While rare, complications can happen after wisdom tooth removal, such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection like fever or pus. Having the contact information for our emergency dentist handy can provide peace of mind.
Here’s how to know when to reach out:
- Persistent bleeding that doesn’t subside after several hours
- Pain that doesn’t improve or worsens after 48 hours
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Foul-tasting drainage around the surgical site
Our oral health team is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to call if something doesn’t feel right.
Pro Tip
Keep our information in a visible and easily accessible place, such as on your refrigerator or saved in your phone: (915) 881-3860.
6. Your Favorite Things
Recovery isn’t just about medical essentials—comfort and mindset play equally important roles. Surround yourself with items that make you feel relaxed and cozy during your healing process, such as:
- Comfy Pillows: Avoid lying flat for the first day or two.
- Plush Blankets: Sleeping can help with healing.
- Loose Clothing: Make it easy to change clothes and get cozy.
- Entertainment: Queue up binge-worthy shows, movies, or books.
Little touches like these can make recovery more pleasant and help you focus on getting better.
Pro Tip
Have a friend or family member help you set up your recovery space before your procedure so that everything is ready when you return home.
7. Support from 915 Smile Studio
After your wisdom tooth removal in El Paso, you don’t have to recover alone. Whether you have questions about your healing progress or experience unexpected discomfort, we provide expert advice and gentle reassurance.
Start Your El Paso Wisdom Tooth Removal Recovery Right
Successful healing begins with the right preparation and support. From managing pain to enjoying some well-deserved relaxation, these essentials will get you through the process of having your wisdom teeth removed. If you need additional assistance, the friendly team at 915 Smile Studio in El Paso is just a click or call away—because your recovery matters to us just as much as your procedure.
