One of the most common concerns after oral surgery is how long does it take to recover from wisdom tooth extraction. While recovery timelines vary depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing factors, most people return to normal activities within a week. Understanding the **Wisdom Tooth Extraction Treatment** recovery stages, what to expect, and how to care for yourself post-surgery can speed up healing and prevent complications.

Initial Recovery: The First 24 to 72 Hours

The first few days after the extraction are the most crucial for forming a blood clot and beginning the healing process. You can expect some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding. Here’s what usually happens:

• Bleeding typically slows within a few hours after surgery
• Swelling peaks around the second day and starts to reduce
• Pain can be managed with prescribed or OTC pain relievers
• Ice packs help minimize facial swelling and bruising
• Eating soft foods and avoiding hot liquids is recommended

By following your dentist’s post-op instructions during this period, you lay the foundation for a smooth recovery.

Days 3 to 5: Easing Into Healing

By the third day, the worst of the discomfort should begin to fade. While you may still need medication for mild pain, most people start feeling better. Here’s what to expect:

• Swelling should start decreasing noticeably
• Stiffness in the jaw may persist but should improve gradually
• You can begin rinsing with warm saltwater to clean the area
• Soft foods like yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes remain ideal
• Avoid chewing near the extraction site to prevent irritation

This stage marks the transition between active recovery and gradual return to routine activity.

One Week Post-Extraction: Back to Normal Activities

By day seven, most patients feel almost fully recovered and may return to school or work with minimal discomfort. Some signs of improvement at this point include:

• Stitches (if non-dissolvable) may be removed by your dentist