Ice Or Heat? Best Remedies For Post-wisdom Teeth Removal Discomfort

By Author: Will Sievier
Total Articles: 46
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So, you’ve just had your wisdom teeth taken out, and now your jaw feels a bit swollen and tight. You’re probably wondering what helps more: ice or heat? It's one of the first things most people ask when they get home from the dentist.

The good news is, both can help. You just need to know when to use each one. Whether you're feeling puffy around the cheeks or just want to ease that post-surgery discomfort, this guide will walk you through what works, when to switch from cold to warm, and a few extra tips to help you recover smoothly.

Here’s a simple guide to help you feel better, faster.

Why Cold Works Best at First?

In the first 48 hours after surgery, cold packs are the go-to. Applying something cold to the outside of your face helps calm the swelling and reduces that throbbing sensation. A soft gel ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel works well. Stick to 15–20-minute intervals with breaks in between. This gives your face a chance to settle without overdoing it.

If you’ve had a recent wisdom teeth extraction in Sydney, you’ll probably find that using cold consistently ...
... in the early days helps more than anything else. It’s not about toughing it out; it’s about giving your body the tools to recover.

When to Use Heat Instead

Once the swelling starts to go down, usually after day two, you can switch to a warm compress. The warmth helps relax the jaw muscles and encourages circulation, which supports healing. Use a warm (not hot) towel on the outside of your cheek for about 10–15 minutes at a time.

Just be sure not to use heat too soon. If the area still feels puffy or tender, give it another day of cold before switching over.

Other Ways to Stay Comfortable

Cold and heat aren’t the only tools that help. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, staying hydrated, and eating soft foods all play a role. Stick to broths, mashed vegetables, yoghurt, and smoothies (no straws for now). Avoid crunchy or chewy foods until your dentist gives you the all-clear.

A clean mouth also helps prevent discomfort from turning into something more serious. Rinse gently with saltwater from the second day onward, but skip mouthwash unless your dentist specifically recommends it.

If anything feels unusual, like swelling returning after it’s gone down, it’s worth getting in touch with your dental clinic.

How Long Does It All Last?

You’ll notice the most change in the first few days. By day four or five, most people feel a lot more normal. Some minor sensitivity can stick around for a couple of weeks, but you shouldn’t need cold or heat therapy for long.

Planning ahead can make the experience smoother. If you're weighing up the wisdom teeth extraction cost in Sydney, knowing the price range before booking your appointment can help you budget and choose the right timing.

And if you haven’t booked your procedure yet, make sure you go with a trusted clinic that specialises in wisdom tooth extraction in Sydney. It makes a real difference when your dentist is experienced and the process is well managed from start to finish.

The Bottom Line

Stick to cold packs in the early days, then move to warmth once your jaw starts to settle. Rest, stay on soft foods, and follow the aftercare tips. With the right approach, most people are back to their usual self in no time.

The author is a Sydney-based dental professional with years of experience in oral surgery and wisdom teeth extractions. Visit https://wisdomteethsydney.com.au/ for more details.