Post-Op Fitness: Can I Work Out After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

Have you recently had your wisdom teeth removed and are wondering if you can resume your regular workout routine? You may have been looking forward to hitting the gym or going for a run, but the thought of exercising after oral surgery can be daunting. After all, wisdom teeth removal is a serious procedure that requires proper rest and care for a speedy recovery. In this article, we’ll answer the burning question on many people’s minds – Can I workout after wisdom teeth removal? We’ll explore the dos and don’ts of post-surgery exercise and provide helpful tips to ensure a safe and successful recovery. So let’s get started!

The Importance of Rest After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom teeth, also known as third molars, typically emerge between the ages of 17-25. These are the last set of teeth to come in and can potentially cause problems if there is not enough space for them in the mouth. This is why many people opt to have their wisdom teeth removed.

While wisdom teeth removal may seem like a simple procedure, it is still surgery and requires proper recovery time. Your oral surgeon will advise you on how to take care of your mouth after the procedure, including resting properly. Here are some reasons why rest is crucial after wisdom teeth removal.

Prevent Bleeding and Swelling

After your wisdom teeth are removed, it is normal to experience some bleeding and swelling in the area. This is because your oral surgeon had to make small incisions in the gums to remove the teeth. Resting will help reduce blood flow to the extraction site, reducing bleeding, and allowing the area to heal faster.

Similarly, resting can help reduce swelling by preventing blood from pooling in the area. Swelling can also be minimized by keeping your head elevated while lying down.

Promote Healing

Resting after wisdom teeth removal allows your body to focus its energy on healing. When you are constantly active or engaging in strenuous activities, your body has to use its energy for those tasks rather than healing. This can delay the healing process and increase your risk of complications.

By resting, you are giving your body enough time and resources to regenerate tissue and recover from surgery. This will result in a faster recovery process with less discomfort.

Prevent Dry Socket

Dry socket is a common complication after wisdom teeth removal that occurs when a blood clot does not form properly or becomes dislodged from the extraction site. It can be extremely painful and delay healing. Resting can help prevent dry socket by allowing the blood clot to form and stay in place.

During a restful recovery, it is important to avoid using straws or spitting forcefully as this can dislodge the blood clot. Your oral surgeon will also advise you against smoking as it can increase your risk of dry socket.

Reduce Pain

It is normal to experience some discomfort after wisdom teeth removal, but resting can help reduce pain. By staying off your feet and avoiding strenuous activities, you are allowing your body to heal without putting added pressure on the extraction site. This will decrease your discomfort and make the recovery process more manageable.

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Resting allows you to maintain good oral hygiene, which is crucial for proper healing after wisdom teeth removal. It is important to continue brushing your teeth gently twice a day, including the extraction site, to keep it clean and prevent infection.

However, it is important not to rinse your mouth too vigorously or use mouthwash as this can irritate the extraction site and delay healing. Follow your oral surgeon’s instructions on how to clean your mouth properly during recovery.

When Can I Resume Working Out?

Many people wonder when they can resume their regular workout routine after wisdom teeth removal. The answer may vary depending on individual circumstances and how well you are recovering. However, here are some general guidelines to follow:

Listen to Your Body

The most important thing when it comes to working out after wisdom teeth removal is listening to your body. Take note of how you feel and any discomfort you may be experiencing. If you feel well enough, then slowly start incorporating light exercise into your routine.

If you experience any pain or excessive bleeding while working out, stop immediately and consult with your oral surgeon before resuming physical activity.

Wait at Least 48 Hours

It is recommended to wait at least 48 hours after wisdom teeth removal before engaging in any physical activity. This is the initial healing stage, and your body needs rest to recover properly. Engaging in strenuous activities too soon can increase your risk of complications, such as dry socket.

After 48 hours, if you feel well enough, you can start with light exercises such as walking or gentle stretching.

Avoid Strenuous Activities for a Week

It is best to avoid any strenuous physical activities, such as weight lifting, running, or high-intensity workouts for at least a week after wisdom teeth removal. Your body needs time to heal properly, and engaging in demanding exercises too soon can delay the healing process and increase your risk of complications.

Consult with Your Oral Surgeon

Before resuming your regular workout routine, it is important to consult with your oral surgeon. They know your individual circumstances and can advise you on when it is safe to start working out again. It is best to follow their recommendations to ensure a fast and successful recovery.

Exercising After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Dos and Don’ts

While working out

After having your wisdom teeth removed, it is normal to feel a little apprehensive about resuming your normal routine, especially when it comes to working out. This is because wisdom teeth removal is a form of surgery and your body needs time to heal and recover from the procedure. However, exercise can also play a crucial role in the healing process if done correctly. In this article, we will answer the question “Can I workout after wisdom teeth removal?” and provide expert advice on how to safely resume physical activity after the surgery.

Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure where your wisdom teeth (also known as third molars) are removed from the back of your mouth. These teeth are located at the very back of your mouth and usually emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood. Due to their location and size, wisdom teeth can cause problems such as crowding, impaction, infection, and other oral health issues. Hence, many dentists recommend having them removed to prevent any potential complications.

Recovery Period

The recovery period for wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person depending on factors such as age, overall health, and complexity of the procedure. However, on average, it takes about 7-10 days for complete recovery from wisdom tooth extraction. During this time, it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully and give your body enough time to heal before resuming any physical activity.

The Importance of Rest

One of the main reasons why dentists advise against working out after wisdom teeth removal is because rest plays a crucial role in the healing process. Your body needs time to repair itself after surgery and engaging in strenuous physical activity can divert resources away from healing. Ignoring this important rest period can prolong the recovery process and even lead to complications such as bleeding, infection, and dry socket.

When Can I Workout After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

While rest is important for recovery, it is also essential to stay active to maintain your overall health and well-being. So when can you resume your workout routine after wisdom teeth removal? The general rule of thumb is to wait at least 24-48 hours after the surgery before resuming any form of physical activity. However, it is best to consult your dentist for personalized advice on when you can safely start exercising again.

Resume With Low Impact Workouts

After the initial rest period, it is important to slowly ease back into your workout routine with low impact exercises. Low impact workouts are those that are gentle on the body and do not involve excessive strain or jarring movements. Some examples of low impact exercises include walking, light jogging, yoga, and swimming. These types of workouts will help you get back into physical activity without putting too much strain on your body.

Listen To Your Body

It is crucial to listen to your body during this time and avoid any form of exercise that causes pain or discomfort. If you experience any pain or swelling in the jaw or mouth area during your workout, stop immediately and give yourself more time to recover before trying again. It is also important to stay hydrated and fuel your body with proper nutrition during this time.

Avoid Strenuous Activities

Strenuous activities such as weight lifting, contact sports, or high-intensity workouts should be avoided for at least a week after wisdom teeth removal. These types of activities put extra strain on your body and may lead to complications or hinder the healing process.

When To Seek Medical Advice

If you experience any unusual symptoms such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or signs of infection (fever, swelling, redness), it is important to seek medical advice immediately. These could be signs of complications and should not be ignored.

In conclusion, it is possible to workout after wisdom teeth removal but it is important to follow your dentist’s instructions and listen to your body. Rest is crucial for the healing process and it is important not to resume physical activity too soon. Start with low impact exercises and gradually increase intensity as your body heals. If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop and give yourself more time to recover. And most importantly, do not hesitate to seek medical advice if needed. By following these guidelines, you can safely resume your workout routine after wisdom teeth removal while allowing your body the necessary time to heal.

Q: Can I workout after wisdom teeth removal?

A: It is recommended to avoid any strenuous physical activity for at least 24 hours after wisdom teeth removal.

Q: Can I do light exercises after getting my wisdom teeth removed?

A: Yes, you can do light exercises such as walking or stretching, but do not engage in high-intensity workouts.

Q: How long should I wait before resuming my regular workout routine after wisdom teeth removal?

A: It is best to wait for at least 3-4 days before returning to your regular workout routine. This allows your body enough time to heal properly.

Q: Is it safe to lift weights after having my wisdom teeth removed?

A: It is not recommended to lift weights or engage in any strenuous activities that may put pressure on your jaw and cause discomfort.

Q: What should I do if I experience pain while exercising after wisdom teeth removal?

A: If you experience pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately and rest. Consult with your dentist if the pain persists.

Q: Are there any specific exercises I should avoid after wisdom teeth removal?

A: Yes, you should avoid any exercises that involve heavy lifting, straining or putting pressure on your jaw, such as weightlifting, yoga poses like downward dog, and sit-ups.

In summary, the question of whether or not one can workout after wisdom teeth removal is a common concern among many patients undergoing this oral surgery. While it is important to give your body time to heal and avoid strenuous exercises immediately after the procedure, there are ways to slowly reintroduce physical activity back into your routine.

First and foremost, it is crucial to follow the post-operative instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon. This includes taking any prescribed pain medication and avoiding activities that may put unnecessary strain on the surgery site. Gentle stretching and walking can be beneficial in promoting blood flow and reducing swelling.

As mentioned, each individual may have a different recovery time depending on their overall health and the complexity of the extraction. It is important to listen to your body and slowly increase your activity level as you feel comfortable. Some individuals may be able to resume their regular workout routine within a few days, while others may need more time.

It is also essential to maintain good oral hygiene during this time to prevent any infections or complications. Gently brushing your teeth and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep the surgical area clean.

In addition, it is advisable to modify certain exercises during the healing process. For example, avoiding activities that involve heavy lifting or contact sports can reduce the

Author Profile

Avatar
Genny Wilkinson Priest
Genny Wilkinson Priest began her journey into Ashtanga yoga in 2000 while working as a journalist in her native New York City. Initially drawn to the practice for its physical benefits, Genny soon discovered the profound mental advantages, especially during the challenging period following the 9/11 terror attacks.

Which she covered as a journalist for Reuters. Her professional career took her to Singapore, where she wrote for Time Magazine, and then to Paris, before she finally settled in London.

As her family expanded to include four boys, Genny decided to leave full-time journalism to immerse herself in yoga studies. She achieved certification as a Shri K Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute Authorised Level 1 teacher, a British Wheel of Yoga teacher, and a Yoga Alliance-certified teacher.Genny’s passion for yoga philosophy led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in the Traditions of Yoga and Meditation at SOAS in London.

From 2024, Genny Wilkinson Priest has started writing an informative blog on the “Niche Name” niche. She writes informative posts and answers queries on topics that people seek in the niche. This transition marks a significant shift from her previous focus on journalism and traditional media to a more interactive and digital form of communication.

Genny’s blog aims to provide valuable information and foster a community of yoga enthusiasts who can learn and grow together. Her extensive background in both journalism and yoga practice ensures that her content is both authoritative and engaging.