CarolinasDentist Blog

What Should Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Look Like?

Illustration of a mouth with a partially impacted wisdom tooth that needs to be extracted

Wisdom teeth, which are the third molars at the very back of your jaw, are the last teeth to erupt. Many people don’t have enough room for these teeth so they can come in at an angle or become impacted beneath the gums. We often recommend extraction before these molars start causing problems. Here are some tips to promote a smooth recovery after your wisdom tooth extraction:

  1. Get Plenty of Rest

    2. Rest is essential after wisdom tooth extraction. Avoid strenuous exercise, bending over, and lifting heavy objects for several days. Working out raises your blood pressure, which makes the extraction wounds more likely to bleed. Though you may be feeling much better after just a week, it can take a few weeks to recover completely.

  2. Use an Ice Pack for the First 48-72 Hours

    3. After a wisdom tooth extraction, you will likely experience swelling. Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek for the first 2-3 days after surgery. Depending on how well you tolerate the cold, try keeping it on for 20 minutes and then off for 10-20 minutes, then repeat. Sleeping and resting propped up with an extra pillow will also help control any swelling.

  3. Wait to Rinse Your Mouth

    4. After oral surgery, you shouldn’t rinse your mouth, swish, or spit for 24 hours. You can start gentle rinses the day after surgery. Slowly increase the vigorousness of your rinsing and swishing throughout the rest of the week.

  4. Drink Lots of Water & Eat Soft Foods

    5. Hydration helps your body heal. You’ll need to drink lots of water. Fruit smoothies without seeds can also help you stay hydrated. Don’t drink alcohol, carbonated beverages, or super hot liquids. Straws can dislodge the blood clots at the extraction sites so don’t use them. As for food, you want to stick with soft foods like yogurt, lukewarm soup, scrambled eggs, noodles, mashed potatoes, bananas, and applesauce for the first few days.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction at CarolinasDentist

We understand that getting your wisdom teeth removed may sound scary! But our team uses advanced tools, modern techniques, and calming dental sedation to help you be as comfortable as possible throughout your procedure. And we will provide specific post-care instructions so you’ll know exactly what to expect after your procedure. If you have questions or want to book an appointment, please contact us today!

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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