Introduction
Wisdom teeth removal is a common surgical procedure for adults, especially those in their late teens or early twenties. The procedure is designed to correct overcrowding or misalignment of the teeth, as well as reduce the risk of infection or disease caused by impacted wisdom teeth. But once your wisdom teeth have been removed, how long should you wait before resuming your normal workout routine? This article will explore the recovery timeline, guidelines for exercising after wisdom teeth removal, and tips to help speed up your post-surgery healing process.
How to Prepare for a Workout After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Before undergoing wisdom teeth removal surgery, it’s important to discuss with your dentist or oral surgeon what type of physical activity will be safe after the procedure. They may suggest certain pre-surgery considerations, such as avoiding strenuous activities that could cause swelling or bleeding in the days leading up to your surgery. Post-surgery precautions should also be taken, such as avoiding contact sports or any activity that involves direct pressure on the face or jaw. Your dentist or oral surgeon may also recommend taking painkillers or other medications to manage discomfort.
The Recovery Timeline: When Can I Safely Resume Exercise After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
The length of time it takes to recover from wisdom teeth extraction varies from person to person, and is affected by several factors, including the complexity of the extraction, age, overall health, and the type of activity being resumed. Generally speaking, most people can expect to take up to two weeks to fully recover from wisdom teeth extraction. During this time, it’s important to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions for proper care and healing.
When it comes to resuming exercise after wisdom teeth removal, there are different time frames depending on the type of activity. Light aerobic activities, such as walking or jogging, can usually be resumed within one week after surgery. Moderate activities, like swimming, biking, or weight lifting, can typically be resumed within two weeks. High intensity activities, such as running or playing contact sports, should not be resumed until at least four weeks after surgery.
How Long Should You Wait Before Working Out After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Though the general recovery timeline for wisdom teeth removal is two weeks, it’s important to listen to your body and give yourself plenty of time to heal. According to Dr. Mark Comerford, an oral surgeon in Connecticut, “It is important to wait until you are feeling comfortable and able to open your mouth wide enough to perform the exercise. You don’t want to push your body too hard and risk damaging your wound, extending your recovery time.”
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to wait until they subside before resuming exercise: pain, swelling, tenderness, difficulty opening your mouth, or excessive bleeding. It’s also important to note that the recovery process can vary based on the complexity of the surgery, so it’s best to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon before attempting any physical activity.
Advice from an Oral Surgeon: What You Need to Know About Exercising After Wisdom Teeth Surgery
According to Dr. Comerford, it’s important to start slowly when resuming exercise after wisdom teeth removal. “Starting slowly doesn’t mean skipping ahead to the heaviest weight or highest intensity,” he says. “Start with lighter weights and lower intensities and gradually increase the intensity over the course of a few weeks.” He also recommends resting for at least 24 hours after each workout.
Dr. Comerford notes that even though exercise is beneficial for overall health, there are potential risks associated with working out too soon after wisdom teeth removal. “Exercise can increase blood flow to the area, which can cause increased swelling and inflammation. Additionally, if you try to do too much too soon, you can put yourself at risk for developing dry socket, an extremely painful condition that can delay your healing process.”
Get Back in the Gym: Tips to Help Speed Up Your Post-Surgery Recovery After Wisdom Teeth Removal
Although it may take some time to resume your normal workout routine after wisdom teeth removal, there are several steps you can take to make the healing process go more smoothly. Rest is key, as it gives your body the time it needs to heal. Eating a balanced diet full of nutrient-rich foods can also help speed up the recovery process. It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and avoid becoming dehydrated.
Once you’re ready to start increasing your activity levels, it’s important to do so gradually. Start with light exercises such as walking, stretching, or yoga. As your body adjusts to the new activity level, you can gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. Listen to your body and stop if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure for adults. While the recovery timeline can vary from person to person, most people can expect to take up to two weeks to fully recover from the surgery. It’s important to get the green light from your dentist or oral surgeon before resuming any physical activity, and to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. By following these tips and listening to your body, you can ensure a safe and speedy recovery.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)