Swelling is a common sign of having had your wisdom teeth removed. Although this is common, but it can make the recovery feel like it is a lot more difficult than what it actually is.
Swelling usually starts to show within two days. It can peak by day three, creating discomfort. While this reaction is normal, you can’t stop it. However, there are simple ways to reduce swelling and help your body heal faster. If you follow these steps, you will be able to minimize the swelling and your time of recovery will be much shorter.
If you recently had your wisdom teeth removed, and want to learn how to reduce swelling after wisdom teeth removal, then keep reading as we will share key tips to reduce swelling and speed up recovery.
How to Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Removal Fast
Here are the steps you can take simple steps to reduce swelling and help your body recover faster.
The First 24 Hours
The first day is critical for controlling swelling. If handled correctly, it can shorten the healing period and limit discomfort.
1. Apply Ice Packs
Wrap crushed ice or frozen vegetables in a soft cloth. Press it gently on the swollen spot for a short while. Remove it for 15 minutes and repeat.
Cold reduces blood flow in the area, slowing swelling. If both sides of your mouth are swollen, switch the pack from one side to the other.
2. Rest with an Elevated Head
Rest is essential. Avoid physical activity that increases blood flow. Use pillows to keep your head raised when resting. Keeping your head elevated helps reduce pressure and fluid build-up.
3. Replace the Gauze
After the treatment, your dentist will cover the area with a clean gauze piece. This helps form blood clots, which are key for healing. Leave the gauze for a few hours. If it becomes soaked, replace it gently. Avoid disturbing the site.
4. Avoid Hot Foods and Beverages
Stick to soft, cold foods like yogurt or ice cream on day one. Hot food and drinks can increase blood flow, worsening swelling. Avoid chewy or crunchy foods to protect the area.
5. Take Pain Medication
Non-prescription painkillers like ibuprofen reduce swelling and pain. Follow the dosage instructions. If pain persists, reach out to your dentist for help.
After the First Day: How to Prevent Swelling from Wisdom Teeth Removal Before It Peaks
Once the first 24 hours pass, the swelling will peak. Now, you can switch to other techniques to ease discomfort and promote healing.
1. Switch to Warm Compresses
After 24 hours, heat becomes more effective than ice. Use a warm towel or heating pad. Hold the compress on the swollen spot for 20 minutes, then take it off for 20 minutes.
Warmth improves blood circulation, helping fluids drain from the area. It also relaxes tight tissues caused by swelling.
2. Rinse Your Mouth with Salt Water
Rinsing with warm salty water keeps the area free from germs and reduces puffiness. Salt has antibacterial properties, preventing infections. It also reduces inflammation.
- Stir a 1 teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water.
- Rinse your mouth gently 3–4 times daily.
- Avoid vigorous swishing to prevent disturbing blood clots.
Did you know salt water rinses are widely used to reduce swelling after oral surgery?
3. Eat Soft, Nutrient-Dense Foods
Focus on soft foods packed with nutrients. Your body needs vitamins and minerals to heal. Consider:
- Soups (lukewarm, not hot)
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Smoothies
- Soft fruits
Avoid using straws to drink liquids. It can dislodge blood clots, leading to dry socket, a painful condition.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water during recovery. Hydration reduces inflammation and speeds up healing. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated drinks for at least 48 hours. These can irritate the wound and delay healing.
Why Swelling Occurs and How Long It Takes
This is because when you injure yourself, your body mobilizes blood and fluids to the injured part to help it to heal. This is a normal instinct of self-preservation. The swelling timeline for wisdom teeth typically peaks at 48 hours and begins to decrease by the third or fourth day. Most of the swelling should be gone by the fifth day of treatment.
In most cases, swelling is not dangerous and subsides within a couple of days. However, you should see your dentist if:
- Swelling which lasts for more than one week.
- You feel a stab or a dull ache.
- You get a temperature or you have bad taste in your mouth.
These symptoms may be signs of infections or dry socket among other complications.
FAQs About Swelling After The Removal of The Wisdom Teeth
What are the natural remedies for a swollen face after tooth extraction?
To ease swelling, apply cold packs in the first 24 hours. After that, use warm packs. Gargle with the salty water to reduce swelling. Eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids during recovery.
How many days will my face be swollen after having my wisdom teeth pulled?
Swelling is at its worst on the second or third day. By the fourth day, it should start going down. Most of the swelling will disappear by day five, though this depends on how hard the removal was.
Can I avoid swelling before surgery for wisdom teeth?
Swelling shows the body repairing itself naturally. However, you can reduce it by using ice packs right after surgery, keeping your head elevated, and staying away from hot foods and drinks.
What should be avoided to reduce swelling after wisdom teeth removal?
Avoid heavy exercise, spicy foods, and drinks. Don’t use straws, and stay away from smoking. These actions can increase swelling and slow down recovery.
Is it normal to have a swollen face after wisdom teeth removal?
Yes, it is common to have swelling after the extraction. It’s how your body works to close the wound. The swelling will typically start to go down after a few days
Last Words
Swelling after wisdom teeth removal is normal, but it doesn’t have to make recovery miserable. Ice packs, proper rest, warm compresses, and salt water rinses can ease discomfort and speed up healing.
Stick to soft foods, drink water, and avoid habits that delay healing. Follow these steps, and you will recover faster with less pain.
