How To Get Food Out Of Wisdom Teeth Holes
While getting your wisdom teeth removed might not be your ideal day out, it can be necessary for maintaining good oral health. On the plus side, you’ll get a temporary pass to indulge in a soft-food diet of mac and cheese and chocolate pudding! However, even with careful eating, food particles can sometimes become lodged in the empty wisdom teeth sockets after the extraction. This guide will explain proper care for your mouth after wisdom teeth removal and what to do if food gets stuck in the sockets.Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
While not everyone needs their wisdom teeth removed, it’s often necessary when the teeth become impacted, meaning they are stuck below the gum line and grow at an awkward angle. This condition can result in pain, swelling, and various dental problems. It’s important to consult with your trusted Boca Raton dentist to determine if wisdom teeth removal is necessary in your case. Possible complications from not removing wisdom teeth include:- Overcrowding of teeth
- Pain, tenderness, and swelling around the gums
- Increased risk of tooth decay
- Formation of cysts
- Gum disease
How Can I Avoid Getting Food Stuck in Wisdom Teeth Sockets?
Fortunately, recovery from wisdom teeth removal is temporary. These tips can help you stay comfortable during healing and ensure a smooth recovery:- Stick to soft foods such as mashed potatoes, macaroni, soup, scrambled or hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, and pudding.
- Avoid chewing near the sockets until they start to heal.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water after eating.
- Steer clear of foods that could easily get stuck, like rice, and avoid anything chewy or crunchy.
How to Clean Your Wisdom Teeth Sockets
After wisdom teeth removal, keeping the extraction sockets clean is crucial for healing. Food particles can cause inflammation if they get stuck, but it’s important not to disrupt the clot forming in the socket. Here’s how to remove food stuck in your wisdom teeth sockets:- Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to dislodge the food. Avoid swishing the water and don’t spit, as this can lead to painful dry sockets.
- If your clinician gave you a syringe, use warm water or salt water to gently flush the socket. Be careful not to touch the gums with the syringe.
- Using a germicidal oral rinse can reduce bacteria in your mouth. Your dentist may prescribe this after your procedure.
- Avoid suction, which can lead to dry sockets. Don’t use straws, smoke, spit, or swish liquids aggressively in your mouth.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids.
- Use ice packs on your cheeks to reduce swelling.
- Avoid touching the surgical site if possible.