If your dentist has recommended that you have your wisdom teeth removed, you might be planning on scheduling an appointment for your wisdom tooth removal sometime soon. If this is the case, then you might be a little bit nervous about having the procedure done, and you could be wondering about what the recovery period will be like. 

Skip Cleaning Your Teeth

You might not want to brush your teeth or clean out your mouth after you have your wisdom teeth removed because of pain and discomfort or because you're worried that it will cause problems. However, it's actually very important for you to keep your mouth clean after your wisdom tooth removal so you can help prevent infection. Just make sure that you are careful when cleaning around the areas where your wisdom teeth were to avoid unnecessary discomfort and avoid causing irritation to the area.

Smoke

If you are a smoker, you might not be looking forward to abstaining from smoking after you have your wisdom teeth removed. Smoking increases your chances of infection and complications, though, and it can slow down the healing process. Therefore, it's important to avoid smoking in the days after your procedure. If you are worried about whether or not you're going to be able to do it, you can ask your dentist about smoking cessation aids.

Take Too Much Medication

Your doctor might prescribe pain medication for you to take after having your wisdom teeth removed so you can get some relief from the pain and discomfort. Make sure that you follow your prescription when taking this medication, and ask your dentist or doctor for advice before mixing your prescription pain medication with over-the-counter pain medication. 

Eat the Wrong Foods

You probably aren't going to feel like eating chewy or hard foods after having your wisdom teeth removed. Instead, try eating soft foods, such as mashed potatoes or soup. Another option is to make a cold smoothie that is packed with healthy veggies; not only can this provide you with the nutrition that you need, but you might find that the cold smoothie will be soothing for your sore mouth during your recovery, too.

As you can see, there are a few things that you should not do after you have your wisdom teeth removed. If you make sure that you avoid these things, and if you follow all of the advice that your dentist gives you for the recovery period, then you shouldn't have any complications or issues after your procedure.

For more information on wisdom teeth removal, contact a professional near you.