Recovery after wisdom tooth extraction in Milan typically takes 2–4 days for simple cases and up to 7–10 days for complex impactions. Most students can return to class after 2–3 days, with a few practical precautions. The key recovery window is the first 48–72 hours.
Day 0 (procedure day)
Local anaesthesia wears off in 2–4 hours; mild ooze of saliva tinged with blood is normal for several hours. Bite gently on the provided gauze for 30–60 minutes. Apply ice on the cheek (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first day to reduce swelling. Soft, cool food (yogurt, smoothie with spoon, mashed potato). No smoking, no alcohol, no straw. Sleep with the head slightly elevated.
Day 1
Swelling peaks around 48–72 hours — expect mild facial puffiness. Continue ice for the first 24 hours. Painkillers as prescribed (typically ibuprofen). Soft food, no hot drinks, no rinsing yet. Gentle brushing of the rest of the mouth. Most students rest at home this day. Light activity (walking) is fine; no gym.
Day 2–3
Swelling may still increase before it improves. Soft foods continue but variety expands (eggs, well-cooked pasta, soft fish). Gentle salt water rinses can start. Many students return to class on day 2 or 3 if they feel up to it. Avoid talking too much if uncomfortable. Still no smoking, no alcohol, no intense sport.
Day 4–7
Pain and swelling progressively reduce. Most chewing returns to normal on the unaffected side. Sutures (if dissolvable) start to fall out; if not dissolvable, they are removed at the follow-up visit. Light gym from day 4 for simple extractions; impacted cases wait longer. Full normal diet over the next few days.
When to call the clinic immediately
Swelling that increases after day 3 (instead of decreasing), high fever, difficulty swallowing or breathing, severe pain that returns on day 3–4 with bad taste (possible dry socket — alveolitis), heavy bleeding that cannot be controlled with gauze. The clinic can be reached on WhatsApp at +39 373 853 9107.
Planning around exams and travel
For an important exam, book the extraction at least 5–7 days before for a simple case, 10–14 days for an impaction. Short-haul flights are usually fine after 48 hours for simple cases; longer flights or post-surgical complex cases benefit from a few extra days. Discuss your specific timeline at the first visit.
What international and Italian patients say about Oral Surgery
Reviews translated from Italian. Original verified reviews available on our Google Business profile (4.9★ · 287 reviews).
Martina B. · Wisdom teeth extraction · ★★★★★
I had to have two impacted wisdom teeth removed and I was panicking. Dr. Giboli was fantastic: rapid procedure, painless, with the 3D CT to plan everything safely. Zero swelling and very quick recovery. I felt nothing. For oral surgery in Milan I put myself in the right hands.
Andrea R. · Impacted wisdom tooth · ★★★★★
Horizontally impacted wisdom tooth close to the nerve — a complicated case. Dr. Giboli extracted it with a minimally invasive technique and incredible precision. You can tell from his hospital surgical experience. Everything explained step by step, no post-op pain. An outstanding oral surgeon — I recommend him in Milan.
Chiara V. · All four wisdom teeth · ★★★★★
I had all four wisdom teeth removed in two sessions. Dr. Giboli and the staff made me feel at ease despite my anxiety. Very fast procedures, very clear post-op protocol and no complications. Ultra-modern studio at Crocetta. The best surgery experience I could have had in Milan.
Frequently asked questions
How long does wisdom tooth recovery take?
2–4 days for simple cases, up to 7–10 days for complex impactions.
When can I go back to class?
Most students return on day 2 or 3 for a simple extraction; complex cases benefit from a few more days.
When can I exercise after wisdom tooth removal?
Light activity from day 4 for simple extractions; intense gym and contact sport after about a week, longer for complex cases.
Can I fly after wisdom tooth extraction?
Short-haul flights usually fine after 48 hours for simple cases; complex extractions benefit from 3–5 days waiting.
Should I plan my extraction around exam period?
Yes — at least 5–7 days before an important exam for a simple case, 10–14 days for a complex impaction.
Looking for an English-speaking dentist in Milan?
The first visit at Clinica Crocetta is complimentary and includes diagnosis, digital scan and a personalised treatment plan in a single appointment. Learn more on our dedicated page: Centro di Chirurgia Orale Milano.
? Book on WhatsApp · +39 373 853 9107 — Largo della Crocetta 1, Milan · Metro M3 Crocetta
Information for educational purposes, not a substitute for a clinical examination. Clinica Crocetta, Largo della Crocetta 1, Milan.