What is Recovery Time after Wisdom Teeth Removal?
“How long will I take to recover?” – It’s a common question, but the truth is that healing varies for everyone. Factors like age, the complexity of extraction, and how well you follow post-operative care all play a role. However, having a structured recovery timeline can help set clear expectations and ensure a smooth healing process.
At Om Datta Dental Clinic, we guide our patients through every stage of wisdom tooth recovery, ensuring they heal comfortably and without complications. Here’s a detailed day-by-day breakdown of what to expect.
Day 1: The First 24 Hours – Managing Swelling & Bleeding
- Numbness: The anesthesia may take a few hours to wear off.
- Mild bleeding: It’s normal to have some bleeding—biting down on gauze helps control it.
- Swelling: Your face may start to swell, but this peaks in the next 48 hours.
How to Reduce Swelling & Pain
- Take prescribed painkillers & anti-inflammatory medications on time.
- Swish warm water with salt to reduce swelling.
What NOT to Do
- No spitting, sucking (straws), or forceful rinsing – This can dislodge the clot and cause a dry socket.
- Avoid smoking or alcohol—it delays healing and increases infection risk.
- Do not touch the surgical site with your tongue or fingers.
Day 2-3: Soft Foods & Resting Right
Swelling peaks on day 2, so don’t be alarmed if your face looks puffy. You may feel mild to moderate pain, which is manageable with medication. Bruising around the jaw is normal, especially in complex extractions.
What to Eat?
- Yogurt
- Mashed potatoes
- Blended soups
- Applesauce
- Scrambled eggs
Oral Care Tips
- Start gently rinsing with salt water after 24 hours, but avoid vigorous swishing.
- Do not brush near the extraction site—stick to gentle oral hygiene.
Managing Discomfort Without Disrupting Healing
- Continue rinsing with warm water and salt if swelling persists.
- Take medications as prescribed and avoid overusing painkillers.
- Rest well—your body heals best when you get proper sleep.
Day 4-7: Returning to Routine, But Carefully
Healing Progress
- Swelling starts reducing, but you may still experience mild discomfort.
- Bruising begins to fade by the end of the week.
Can You Exercise?
- Light activities like walking are fine.
- Avoid strenuous workouts, heavy lifting, or bending—this can increase bleeding and swelling.
Watch for Signs of Dry Socket or Infection
- Severe pain after 5-7 days (could indicate dry socket).
- Pus or excessive bleeding from the extraction site.
- Fever or swollen lymph nodes—potential infection signs.
- Persistent bad breath/taste despite good oral care.
Week 2: Gradually Returning to Normal Foods & Activities
Eating Solid Foods Again
- You can start introducing soft solids like pasta, rice, and cooked veggies.
- Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that might irritate the healing area.
What If Pain Persists?
- Mild discomfort is normal, but if the pain worsens, consult your dentist.
- If stitches were placed, they may dissolve on their own, but if they don’t, your dentist will remove them safely.
Week 3-4: Full Healing & Scar Tissue Formation
Final Stages of Healing
- Gum tissue starts closing completely, and swelling should be gone.
- The bone beneath the gums will continue healing for several months.
Boost Healing Naturally with Nutrition
- Eat Vitamin C, calcium, and protein-rich foods to promote tissue repair.
- Stay hydrated to speed up recovery.
Recovery is a Journey, Not a Race
If you are planning to remove your wisdom teeth or have already got removed but are having issues after the removal, contact Om Datta Dental Clinic, which is known for wisdom tooth removal in Ghatkopar. Whether your recovery is quick or takes a few extra days, following post-operative care instructions is the key to avoiding complications.