Get Back In Shape: When to Resume Exercise After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

AvatarByGenny Wilkinson Priest

When it comes to post-operative care after wisdom teeth removal, one of the most frequently asked questions is, “When can I start exercising again?” As tempting as it may be to hit the gym or go for a run to maintain your fitness routine, it’s crucial to understand the potential risks and limitations involved in exercising after this oral surgery. In this article, we will explore the answer to this common question and provide essential tips for safely incorporating exercise back into your routine after wisdom teeth removal. So, read on to find out when you can resume your workout regime without compromising your recovery.

Removing wisdom teeth is a common oral surgery that many people undergo at some point in their lives. Anytime your teeth are removed, it is important to take proper care of the area to promote healing and prevent complications. One of the main concerns after wisdom teeth removal is when it is safe to resume physical exercise. In this article, we will discuss the appropriate timing for exercising after wisdom teeth removal and provide some tips for a smooth recovery.

The Healing Process After Wisdom Teeth Removal

The recovery period after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person, but on average, it can take anywhere from 7-10 days. During this time, the extraction site will go through different stages of healing. In the first 24 hours, you can expect some bleeding and swelling at the surgical site. Your dentist or oral surgeon may provide you with gauze pads to help control any bleeding. It is essential to change these gauze pads every hour until the bleeding has stopped.

After the first day, you may experience mild discomfort or pain around the extraction area. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers recommended by your dentist. Swelling may also increase during this time and can be reduced by applying an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time.

Around day three, you may notice that the pain and swelling have started to decrease as your body begins to heal. At this stage, you can start introducing solid foods back into your diet if you have been on a liquid or soft food diet since the surgery.

By day seven, most people are fully recovered from wisdom teeth removal, and any pain or swelling should be completely gone. However, it is essential to continue taking care of your mouth as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon until fully healed.

When Is It Safe To Exercise After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

The general recommendation is to wait at least 3-4 days before resuming any physical exercise after wisdom teeth removal. During the first few days, it is crucial to rest and allow your body to heal. Any strenuous activity or contact sports can increase your blood pressure and cause bleeding or swelling at the surgical site.

In some cases, your dentist or oral surgeon may advise you to wait longer before exercising, depending on your individual healing process. They may also recommend that you avoid any activities that involve bending over or straining for at least a week after surgery.

Factors That May Affect the Timing for Exercising

While the 3-4 day waiting period is a general guideline, there are some factors that may influence the timing for exercising after wisdom teeth removal. These include:

1. Type of Extraction

Wisdom teeth can be removed in various ways, such as simple extractions or surgical extractions. Simple extractions are when the tooth has fully erupted through the gum line and can be easily removed by your dentist using forceps. In this case, you may be able to resume exercising sooner.

On the other hand, surgical extractions are necessary when the wisdom teeth are impacted (partially or fully covered by gum tissue). This type of extraction requires more invasive methods, and therefore, it may take longer for your body to heal entirely. Your dentist will inform you if you have had a simple extraction or surgical extraction and advise accordingly.

2. Individual Healing Process

Everyone’s body heals at a different rate, so it is essential to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard too soon after surgery. Some people may feel back to normal within three days while others may need closer to a week before they feel ready for physical activity.

It is vital not to ignore any signs of discomfort or pain while exercising after wisdom teeth removal. This could be an indication that your body is not yet ready for the activity, and pushing yourself could lead to complications.

3. Overall Health

Your overall health can also affect how quickly you recover from wisdom teeth removal. If you have any underlying health conditions or are on medications that may interfere with the healing process, it is essential to discuss this with your dentist or oral surgeon before resuming exercise.

Tips for Exercising Safely After Wisdom Teeth Removal

Before resuming physical activity, here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a smooth recovery:

1. Take It Slow

Even if you feel completely fine after 3-4 days, it is still essential to take things slow when first reintroducing physical activity. Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually increase the intensity over time.

2. Avoid Straining or Bending Over

As mentioned earlier, it is crucial to avoid any activities that involve bending over or straining for at least a week after surgery. These actions can increase blood flow to the surgical site and potentially cause bleeding or swelling.

3. Stay Hydrated

Recovery Time After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure that involves removing one or more of the third molars located at the back of the mouth. While this procedure is relatively routine, it is still considered a major surgery and requires a recovery period afterwards.

The recovery time after wisdom teeth extraction can vary depending on several factors such as how many teeth were removed, the type of extraction performed, and individual healing abilities. In general, most patients can expect a recovery period of about one to two weeks.

Immediately after the surgery, you will likely experience some swelling and discomfort in your jaw and mouth. This is a normal part of the healing process and can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon. Applying an ice pack to your cheeks for the first 48 hours after surgery can also help reduce swelling.

When Can You Exercise After Wisdom Teeth Removal?

One of the most common questions patients have after their wisdom teeth removal is when they can resume their normal exercise routine. While it may be tempting to jump back into physical activity as soon as possible, it’s important to listen to your body and follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions for optimal healing.

It is generally recommended to avoid any strenuous exercise for at least 3-4 days after surgery. This includes activities such as running, weightlifting, or contact sports that could put strain on your healing mouth. It’s also important to avoid activities that require you to bend over or strain your face in any way.

After the initial 3-4 days have passed, you can slowly start incorporating light exercise into your routine. Walking or light jogging are good options during this phase of recovery. Be sure to listen to your body and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort.

Factors Affecting Recovery Time:

As mentioned earlier, the recovery time after wisdom teeth extraction can vary from person to person. In addition, there are several other factors that can affect the length of your recovery period. These include:

1. Number of Teeth Removed: The more teeth that are removed, the longer the recovery time may be. If only one wisdom tooth is extracted, the healing process may be quicker compared to if all four teeth are removed at once.

2. Type of Extraction: There are two types of wisdom teeth extraction – simple and surgical. A simple extraction involves removing a fully erupted tooth while a surgical extraction requires cutting into gum tissue and bone to remove a partially or fully impacted tooth. Surgical extractions generally have a longer recovery time.

3. Age and Health: Younger patients tend to heal faster than older patients, and those in good overall health may also experience a smoother recovery process.

4. Following Post-Op Instructions: It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s post-operative instructions for optimal healing. This includes taking prescribed medication as directed, eating soft foods, and avoiding certain activities as mentioned above.

Exercise Guidelines During Recovery:

While you may be eager to return to your regular exercise routine, it’s important to take care of yourself during the recovery period to avoid any complications or delayed healing.

1. Avoid Intense Workouts: For the first week after surgery, it’s best to stick with low-impact exercises such as walking or gentle yoga. Avoid activities that require rapid movements or significant exertion on your part.

2. Listen To Your Body: If you experience any pain or discomfort during exercise, stop immediately and rest. It’s important not to push yourself too hard during this time as it could potentially impact the healing process.

3. Protect Your Mouth: Activities such as playing contact sports could put your healing mouth at risk for injury or infection. It’s best to avoid these types of activities until you have fully healed.

4. Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it’s especially crucial during the recovery period. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to aid in your body’s healing process.

In conclusion, wisdom teeth removal is a major surgery that requires a proper recovery period to avoid complications and aid in optimal healing. When it comes to exercising after wisdom teeth extraction, it’s important to listen to your body and follow your dentist’s or oral surgeon’s instructions. By gradually incorporating light exercise into your routine and avoiding intense activities during the first week of recovery, you can help ensure a smoother and faster healing process. Remember to stay hydrated, rest if needed, and always prioritize your oral health during this time.

Q: How long should I wait before exercising after wisdom teeth removal?
A: It is recommended to wait at least 3-4 days after the surgery before resuming any type of exercise.

Q: Can I exercise if I have had all four wisdom teeth removed?
A: It is best to avoid any strenuous activity for at least a week if you have had all four wisdom teeth extracted.

Q: Is it safe to work out after wisdom teeth removal?
A: It is generally safe to exercise after wisdom teeth removal, but it is important to listen to your body and avoid anything too intense or physically demanding.

Q: What types of exercises should I avoid after wisdom teeth removal?
A: It is best to avoid any activities that involve heavy lifting, straining, or putting pressure on your jaw such as weightlifting, contact sports, or even intense cardio workouts.

Q: Are there any specific precautions I should take while exercising after wisdom teeth removal?
A: Yes, it is important to keep hydrated and avoid excessive sweating as it can cause discomfort and delay the healing process. It is also recommended to stick to low-impact exercises like walking or light stretching.

Q: What should I do if I experience pain or discomfort while exercising after wisdom teeth removal?
A: If you experience pain or discomfort while exercising, stop immediately and rest. If the discomfort persists, consult with your dentist as soon as possible to avoid any potential complications.

In conclusion, the timing of when you can exercise after wisdom teeth removal is an important consideration for a smooth and successful recovery. It is generally recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours before resuming any physical activity to allow proper healing of the surgical site. Low-intensity exercises such as walking or light stretching can be started after this initial period, with more rigorous activities being gradually introduced over the next week or so. It is crucial to listen to your body and avoid any strenuous activities that may cause discomfort or worsen healing.

Moreover, consulting with your dentist or oral surgeon for specific exercise restrictions and recommendations can greatly benefit your recovery process. They will have a better understanding of your individual healing process and can advise on when it is safe to resume certain activities. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions such as maintaining good oral hygiene and taking prescribed medications can also aid in a speedy recovery.

It is important to note that every individual’s healing process may vary, and it is essential to take time to properly rest and allow your body to heal before returning to regular exercise routines. Rushing into physical activity too soon can result in complications such as bleeding, infection, and delayed healing.

Ultimately, being patient and listening to your body’s signals are key components in determining when you

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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.