If you’ve recently had your wisdom teeth removed—or you’re preparing for the procedure—it’s completely normal to have questions about what comes next. At My Harmony Smiles, we help patients across Florida recover smoothly from tooth extractions, especially those involving wisdom teeth removal. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference in your comfort and healing.
Here’s what to expect during recovery—so you can feel confident, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
Right After the Extraction
After your procedure, we’ll place a gauze pad over the extraction site to control bleeding and encourage a healthy blood clot to form. This clot is essential—it protects the bone and nerves underneath and supports the healing process.
We’ll ask you to bite down gently on the gauze for about 30 to 45 minutes. You may need to replace it once or twice until the bleeding slows. Some minor oozing is expected during the first 24 hours.
If your extraction was surgical (such as for impacted wisdom teeth), we might also place a few dissolvable stitches to help the area close properly.
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Download Your Guide to The Extraction Process!
Fill Out the Form Below and You Will Receive a Text/Email With A Step-By-Step Guide to Extractions
The First 24 Hours
During the first day, you should focus on resting and protecting the clot that forms in the socket. Here are some essential tips to follow:
- Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws
- Keep your head elevated while resting
- Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt or applesauce
- Apply an ice pack in 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling
- Take any prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed
We’ll review this with you before you leave, and our team is here if you have questions once you get home.
Managing Discomfort and Swelling
It’s very common to experience mild to moderate discomfort after wisdom teeth removal, especially once the anesthesia wears off. Swelling and soreness tend to peak around day two or three and then begin to ease.
To manage discomfort:
- Use cold compresses on the first day
- Switch to warm compresses on day two if swelling continues
- Continue any medications as instructed
- Stay hydrated and choose nutrient-rich, soft foods—but avoid using straws.
If pain increases after day three or you notice a bad taste, foul odor, or intense throbbing, please contact us. These may be signs of dry socket, a treatable condition when the clot dislodges too early.
What to Eat (And Avoid) After Tooth Extractions
Soft foods are your best friend for a few days after tooth extractions. Stick with items that don’t require chewing and won’t irritate the surgical site. Good options include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies (eaten with a spoon, not a straw)
- Soup (let it cool first)
- Pudding, oatmeal, or rice
Avoid:
- Crunchy foods like chips or nuts
- Acidic or spicy foods
- Alcohol and smoking
- Hot beverages
Most people can start reintroducing regular foods by day 5 to 7, depending on how the healing progresses.
Keeping the Area Clean
On the first day, avoid brushing near the extraction site. After 24 hours, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to keep the area clean. Do this a few times a day, especially after meals.
Continue brushing your other teeth and tongue as usual, but be careful not to disturb the healing area. We’ll let you know when it’s safe to return to your regular brushing and flossing routine near the extraction site.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most of our patients feel significantly better within 3 to 5 days after wisdom teeth removal. While gum tissue healing may take several weeks, most patients resume regular activities within a few days—with proper care and rest.
Healing times can vary depending on how many teeth were removed, the complexity of the extraction, and your overall health. If we need to see you for a follow-up visit, we’ll schedule it before you leave.
Supporting You Every Step of the Way
Dr. Bibek Nakarmi and Dr. Alena Kvashenka perform extractions with experience and compassion. We understand that tooth removal can feel intimidating, and we’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible—from the procedure to complete healing.
Every patient receives detailed aftercare instructions tailored to their situation. And if anything feels off or confusing, we’re just a phone call away.
Healing after tooth extractions—especially wisdom teeth removal—is all about patience, proper care, and good communication. Resting, eating soft foods, keeping the area clean, and following our instructions will help your body heal quickly and avoid complications.
At My Harmony Smiles, we take pride in ensuring that you never feel alone in your recovery. Your care doesn’t end after the procedure. We continue supporting your recovery with check-ins and answers when you need them.
If you’re preparing for an extraction or have questions about your recovery, contact My Harmony Smiles today. We’re here to help you heal comfortably and get back to smiling with confidence.
