**Essential Post-Extraction Care for Wisdom Teeth Removal in Chinese Mainland**

　　Recently, many individuals have opted to travel to the Chinese Mainland for wisdom teeth extraction due to the satisfactory medical facilities and sometimes more convenient scheduling. However, wisdom tooth extraction is a significant procedure, and regardless of where you undergo the surgery, post-operative cleaning and recovery are crucial. Proper wound care and infection prevention are key components of the healing process. If neglected, it can lead to prolonged pain and potential inflammation. This article provides essential tips for oral hygiene and care following wisdom tooth extraction in the Chinese Mainland.

　　**Immediate Post-Extraction Care**

　　On the day of extraction, avoid rinsing your mouth or spitting forcefully. A blood clot forms at the extraction site, serving as a natural barrier to protect the wound. Premature rinsing or forceful spitting can dislodge this clot, leading to "dry socket," a condition where healing is impaired and pain intensifies, lasting several days to a week. For the first two to three hours post-extraction, refrain from consuming hot foods or beverages to allow the clot to stabilize before gradually introducing liquids.

　　**Gentle Oral Hygiene**

　　In the initial days following extraction, maintaining oral cleanliness is essential, but it should be done gently. Approximately 12 hours post-extraction, you can begin rinsing with warm saline solution. Mix a small amount of salt with warm water—ensuring its not too concentrated—and rinse two to three times daily, ideally after meals and before bedtime. This helps reduce bacterial infection risk. Remember to swish gently without vigorous movement.

　　**Adjusting Dental Care Tools**

　　For the first couple of days, avoid brushing directly over the wound. Once the site stabilizes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help clean other teeth while maintaining overall oral hygiene. After three to five days, if the wound no longer bleeds, you can start gently cleaning the surrounding teeth. Avoid mouthwashes containing alcohol or strong irritants, as they can cause pain or inflammation at the wound site.

　　**Dietary Considerations**

　　Post-extraction, steer clear of hard, spicy, or overly hot foods. Opt for soft meals like porridge, custard, or tofu pudding that require minimal chewing during the first two days. Avoid coffee, alcohol, and carbonated drinks to pre

　　vent irritation. As the pain subsides, gradually return to normal dietary habits. Ensuring balanced nutrition, particularly protein intake, is vital for wound healing.

　　**Managing Swelling**

　　Swelling is common within the first two days post-extraction. Apply an ice pack for ten minutes on the day of extraction and the following day, repeating every half hour to help reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels. From the third day onwards, switch to warm compresses to enhance blood circulation and accelerate healing. Always wrap ice or heat packs in a cloth before applying them to the skin.

　　**Importance of Rest**

　　Adequate rest is crucial in the initial days post-extraction. Avoid strenuous activities and late nights to allow your body time to heal. Some individuals may experience increased pain after engaging in activities like social outings. If you must go out, avoid windy or dusty environments to prevent debris from entering the mouth.

　　**Monitoring Wound Progress**

　　Typically, pain should gradually decrease within three to five days. If pain intensifies, bad breath develops, or bleeding persists, seek medical attention promptly rather than self-diagnosing. Wisdom teeth are often located deep within the gums, making them prone to bacterial accumulation and inflammation. If you had your extraction in the Chinese Mainland, consider scheduling a follow-up appointment or online consultation upon returning to Hong Kong to ensure normal recovery progress.

　　**Additional Tips**

　　Avoid smoking or alcohol consumption immediately after extraction, as nicotine and alcohol can hinder healing. Women undergoing extraction during menstruation should pay extra attention to hygiene and rest. Additionally, avoid touching or licking the wound with your tongue, as this can inadvertently irritate it and delay healing.

　　In summary, opting for wisdom tooth extraction in the Chinese Mainland is a viable choice, but the focus should be on post-operative care. Regardless of the location, maintaining cleanliness, avoiding irritants, and ensuring sufficient rest are essential. By following these guidelines, wounds typically heal completely within one to two weeks. Oral health is a lifelong commitment, so dont neglect post-surgical care for short-term convenience. Regular dental check-ups are crucial—prevention is better than cure. Whether youre in the Chinese Mainland or Hong Kong, you can recover confidently and restore your smile.