Wisdom Teeth Extraction (OMFS) Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for wisdom teeth extraction (omfs): what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Dry Socket Warning
- •NO straws, smoking, or spitting for 5 days
- •Dry socket causes intense pain 2-5 days after surgery
- •Contact us immediately if you experience severe throbbing pain
Diet Progression
- •Day 0-1: Liquids and very soft foods
- •Day 2-4: Soft foods, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes
- •Day 5-7: Semi-soft, pasta, soft bread
- •Week 2+: Resume normal diet as comfort allows
Wisdom Teeth Extraction (OMFS) recovery, day by day
Immediate Aftercare
- Bite on gauze for 45-60 minutes, replace if soaked
- Someone must drive you home after sedation
- Rest with head elevated on 2-3 pillows
Swelling Prevention
- Start ice packs immediately: 20 min on, 20 min off
- Ice is most effective in the first 48 hours
- Expect swelling to peak on days 2-3
Diet
- Cool liquids only for the first 4-6 hours
- Advance to soft foods: yogurt, pudding, applesauce
- NO straws, hot drinks, or carbonated beverages
Pain Management
- Alternate ibuprofen and acetaminophen as prescribed
- Take medication on schedule, do not wait until pain is severe
- Prescription pain meds may cause drowsiness and constipation
Oral Hygiene
- Do NOT brush near surgical sites for 3 days
- Gentle salt water rinses starting 24 hours after surgery
- Use prescribed antibacterial mouthwash if given
Swelling
- Jaw stiffness and difficulty opening mouth is normal
- Continue ice packs for 48 hours
- Switch to warm moist heat after 48 hours to help resolve swelling
Recovery Progress
- Swelling and bruising should be decreasing
- Gradually introduce semi-solid foods: pasta, soft bread
- Resume gentle tooth brushing, avoiding surgical sites
Activity
- No strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 5-7 days
- No smoking for at least 7 days, delays healing significantly
- Return to work/school when comfortable
Healing & Follow-Up
- Attend post-op check, usually day 7-10
- Stitches may dissolve or be removed at follow-up
- Resume normal diet as tolerated
- Continue salt water rinses after meals
When to call your provider or 911
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Fever above 101°F that doesn't respond to medication
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Uncontrolled bleeding lasting more than 4 hours despite gauze pressure
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication
- •Call 911 now if you notice: Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Numbness that persists beyond 24 hours
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Foul taste/odor indicating possible infection
- •Call your care team today if you notice: Pus or discharge from the surgical site
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 3
Peak Swelling
Swelling is worst at 48-72 hours, then starts improving
- Day 5
Recovery Progress Check
Notice what is improving, unchanged, or worsening. Contact the care team if symptoms are getting worse or the next step is unclear.
- Day 7
Recovery Progress Check
Notice what is improving, unchanged, or worsening. Contact the care team if symptoms are getting worse or the next step is unclear.
- Day 30
Ongoing Recovery Review
Review any remaining symptoms or restrictions with the care team before changing your routine.
For clinics
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