Wisdom teeth may need removal if they have grown incorrectly or turned impacted. Ignoring wisdom tooth that has erupted the wrong way may lead to infection, cyst, gum disease, and misalignment of nearby teeth. Therefore, dentists recommend wisdom tooth removal to preserve dental health. However, tooth extraction leaves a hole that makes people wonder how long it will take to heal. In fact, this concern may deter timely wisdom tooth removal, as people delay seeking treatment until the wisdom tooth impaction has worsened. This blog sheds light on the healing process after wisdom tooth impaction and tips for faster recovery.
What Are The Signs That You Need Wisdom Tooth Removal?
The American Dental Association has listed the following signs indicating the requirement for wisdom teeth removal.
- Pain near or on the site where the wisdom tooth is located
- Fluid-filled cysts (sacs)
- Chronic soft tissue infection behind the lower last tooth
- Deteriorating adjacent teeth
- Tooth decay
- Tumors
- Gum disease
Do Wisdom Teeth Holes Close?
Yes. Each organ of the human body has an exceptional ability to recover naturally, and the wisdom tooth hole is no different. Also called a socket, it closes when a clot forms inside it, and a scab develops over it for protection against infection and pain.
However, if the blood clot gets dislodged, it may result in a painful condition called a “dry socket.” Although uncommon, dry sockets may develop because of several reasons, including:
- Chewing crunchy or hard food soon after wisdom tooth surgery
- Rinsing the mouth vigorously
- Brushing too hard
- Consuming too much caffeine
- Drinking alcoholic or carbonated beverages
- Smoking
- Using straws
So, if you hear anyone say that their wisdom tooth hole never closed, it could be because of a dry socket caused by one of these reasons. A wisdom tooth hole naturally closes when the blood clot in the wisdom tooth socket isn’t irritated.
Typically, the extraction site starts looking smoother within about two weeks and takes a few months for recovery inside out. An x-ray is a good idea to ensure that the extraction site has healed completely.
How Can You Make Wisdom Teeth Holes Close Faster?
The post-procedure ground rules, including wisdom tooth extraction, are the same after surgery. A balanced diet, keeping yourself hydrated, and sufficient iron for wound recovery are essential for faster wisdom tooth hole healing.
Also, remember the following tips for the first few days after the surgery.
- Keep your head elevated
- No rigorous workouts
- Eat soft foods such as porridge, yogurt, and pudding
- Avoid foods that are too hot or too cold
- Limit the consumption of foods that are sweet, sour, or spicy
- Rinse with warm salt water to alleviate pain
- Use an ice pack on the outer cheek to relieve swelling
- Be consistent with maintaining dental hygiene
- Keep drinking water, as it helps wash away food particles and harmful bacteria
- Visit your dentist immediately if you notice too much bleeding, pain that grows, pus formation, or any other unusual changes
A hole after a wisdom tooth infection isn’t something unusual. However, The lack of oral health care after a wisdom tooth surgery may lead to a dry socket and a painful infection. Therefore, staying on top of your dental healthcare routine is imperative to wisdom tooth socket healing.