Question about my wisdom teeth removal?

Question

got my wisdom teeth out about 22 hours ago. i was reading up about dry socket,and many sources say that 2 to 5 percent of people will get this in about 2 to 5 days after the surgery. it says also that women on oral contraceptives have double the chance of getting dry socket because the blood will not clot.. i am on the pill... would i be included in this percentage? or do i have a much higher percentage of getting dry socket?.. also..i had the teeth out monday morning.. and am scheduled for an 8 hour shift at work on thursday.. i had all 4 out.. i am a cashier and have to talk to and deal with people the entire day.. will this be enough time to get better, or no? another question... the paper the dentist gave me said to ice my face for the 1st 24 hours to reduce swelling.. is it okay to still use ice on the second day or no? because the ice makes the pain go away more, but i jsut want to make sure icing it the second day wont delay the healing process or cause any other problems?

Answer 1

It is highly unlikely that you will develop a dry socket after the 3rd molar extractions, especially if you have sutures placed.  We advise patients of the possibility of dry socket "IF" they don't follow post op care instructions.  Just use caution and follow your instructions.  

I wouldn't be concerned about using your method of birth control, your dentist would have advised you to discontinue it for awhile if he felt it was necessary for your dental health and healing.  

As for using ice the second day, you can but all you are doing is chilling already swollen tissue.  Use the (really) warm salt water rinses, swishing gently to remove any lodged food particles and moist hot compresses on both cheeks (while gently opening and closing your mouth stretching the sore muscles) for the best relief; the salt water will help to reduce bacteria count in your mouth and is very soothing to the sore tissue and the hot damp compresses will help to get the blood flowing back into the swollen tissue and muscles which will promote faster healing.  

Continue with any prescribed medications and you can add an Ibuprofen 600mg every 6 hours which will also help reduce swelling.  

You should be fine to return to work by Thurs but may still be slightly sore.