Post impacted wisdom teeth extraction medications and care after surgery

The medications and instructions specified by the oral surgeon must be noted down and followed precisely in order to avoid pointless anxiety and distress. The commonly employed post wisdom teeth extraction medications involve anti-infective drugs such as antiseptic mouthwash and antibiotics. Sometimes painkillers and anti-swelling drugs will be prescribed.

• Antibiotics
Antibiotics are not a must and they are given only if necessary. Once it is given, the patient must complete the entire course which normally lasts for 5-7 days. The frequently prescribed ones are amoxicillin, metronidazole or augmentin. Erythromycin or Clindamycin may be prescribed in case of being allergic to penicillins. These serve to act against infection which may develop post extraction of impacted tooth.

• Painkillers
These are prescribed only if necessary, but several studies have indicated that pain is better controlled by these painkillers after the wisdom teeth surgery since the anesthesia can wear off soon. Hence taking painkillers soon after surgery and a prescribed dosage every day can keep the pain in control. The widely employed painkillers are non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), paracetamol (acetaminophen) and opoids such as tramadol or codeine. These painkillers will sometimes be prescribed in combination owing to their effectiveness.

• Anti-swelling medications
The most commonly used is serratiopeptidase. Since most people possess substantial swelling after the surgery, this is highly recommended. They are effective for the initial three days after surgery.

• Antiseptic mouthwash
The frequently prescribed mouthwashes owing to its effectiveness are those with chlorhexidine. The suggested duration for which it must be employed is for a period of only two weeks since it can cause teeth staining on long-time usage and also has the ability to change the taste bud sensations temporarily.

Those people who decide not to extract their wisdom teeth must take extra care to lower the likely chances for any food traps and infection later. Care includes meticulous cleansing, irrigation of probable food trap areas and maintenance of good oral hygiene. Certain precautions you must follow after the extraction of your wisdom tooth can be summarized as follows.

1. Avoid unnecessary spitting of excess saliva or blood in mouth. Swallow up as much saliva as possible like you are normal.

2. Do not rinse or gargle excessively.

3. Consume cool liquids and soft diet which are tolerable alone.

4. Avoid driving and operating heavy machineries as much as possible in case you are under the prescription of any sedatives or medications which can create drowsiness and interfere with your activities.

5. Avoid tugging or pulling at the stitches or sutures at the operated site.