Removing impacted wisdom teeth is a routine, well-established procedure. Good preparation, both before and after, helps you heal quickly and stay comfortable while you recover.
Before the procedure
A few simple precautions to follow in the days before you come to the practice:
- Do not take aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) in the week before the extraction, nor in the week after.
- Avoid smoking if at all possible from the day before the procedure.
- Eat before you come: you must NOT arrive on an empty stomach.
How the procedure works
The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour. It is painless: you will mainly feel pressure and vibration, and you may hear the strange noises or cracking sounds that go with this kind of procedure.
After the procedure
- Have ice ready for the following 48 hours (you can bring your own ice packs to the practice).
- Do not drive straight after the procedure.
- Stick to semi-liquid food for 2 to 3 days: minced meat, porridge, purées, fruit juice, stewed fruit, custards, etc.
- Take the medication you have been prescribed properly, to avoid any complications.
- Avoid any exertion on the day of the procedure.
Swelling or bruising may occur: plan for a lighter schedule for at least the following 3 days.
Typical prescription
Your dentist will give you a personalised prescription. Here are the medicines usually prescribed around the procedure.
To start on the morning of the procedure
- Amoxicillin 500 mg — 2 capsules morning and evening, for 6 days.
- Solupred 20 mg (prednisolone) — 4 tablets dissolved in a glass of water, once a day in the morning, for 4 days.
To start 1 hour before the procedure
- Paracetamol 1000 mg — 1 tablet every 6 hours for 48 hours, then only if you are in pain. Do not exceed 4 tablets a day.
To start after the procedure
- Eludril (mouthwash) — 15 mL diluted in the measuring cup, 3 times a day after brushing, for 1 minute, without rinsing afterwards. Start 48 hours after the procedure and continue for 7 days. Do not swallow.
- Hyalugel spray — spray onto sore areas of the mouth 4 to 5 times a day as needed.
- Inava post-operative toothbrush — to be used as instructed on the day.
Following the prescription carefully is essential: it limits pain, prevents infection and helps you heal quickly.
