If wisdom teeth removal is in your future, you may be worried about any post-op pain you could feel after your oral surgery procedure. Traditionally, pain management would include ice, over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen and Acetaminophen, and prescription opioid pain medications like oxycodone (Percocet) or hydrocodone (Vicodin). While narcotic medications are effective in relieving severe pain, they come with a whole host of risks, including drowsiness, nausea, constipation, and in some cases, dependency.
Thankfully, there’s a better way.
What Is Exparel and How Does It Work?
Exparel is an opioid-free, long-acting local anesthetic that helps control pain during the recovery from oral surgery. It’s administered during the procedure by your oral surgeon and provides up to 72 hours of continuous pain relief following your wisdom teeth removal, when you need it most.
Unlike standard local anesthetics like lidocaine or articaine that wear off after a few hours, Exparel is formulated to release slowly over time, helping to reduce the need for additional pain medications after surgery. With Exparel, most patients effectively manage post-op pain with ice, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen alone.
Why Oral Surgeons Recommend Exparel for Wisdom Teeth Removal
When it comes to oral surgery, your health, safety, and comfort are always priorities, and Exparel can help play an important role. The single-dose administration right in the surgical site provides immediate and constant post-operative pain relief, easing the burden of medication routines. By reducing or eliminating the need for prescription opioids, Exparel can lower the risk of opioid dependence.
"Exparel has become an essential tool in our post-operative care protocol," says Dr. Chad Dammling, an oral surgeon at Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery. "By delivering localized, long-acting pain relief directly to the surgical site, we can manage pain from wisdom teeth removal with minimal reliance on opioids. Patients feel more comfortable and also recover faster with less risk of opioid-related side effects, aligning with our commitment to providing the best possible care with the latest advancements in pain management."
Dr. Dammling adds, “Many patients tell us they’re surprised at how well they feel in the first few days after surgery. We are also able to keep the numbing agent away from the tongue and lips so that patients are able to have a normal diet earlier than before. We’ve seen a significant drop in the number of patients who even need to fill a pain prescription.”
4 Key Benefits of Exparel for Wisdom Teeth Surgery
1. Long-Lasting Pain Relief When It Matters Most
The first 2–3 days after wisdom teeth removal are typically when patients may feel discomfort. Exparel provides relief from pain during this most critical time after surgery, helping patients rest, eat, and recover with ease.
2. Opioid-Free Recovery
Exparel can reduce or entirely eliminate the need for prescription medications, including opioids. This helps avoid the most common side effects, including:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness, dizziness, or brain fog
- Constipation and stomach issues
- Risk of dependency
This makes it a safer, more comfortable option, especially for teens, young adults, or anyone concerned about opioid and narcotic use.
3. A More Predictable Healing Experience and Fewer Complications
When pain is well-managed, patients are more likely to follow recovery instructions, like staying hydrated, eating soft foods, and getting proper rest, which can help prevent complications like dry socket and promote faster healing.
“We’ve seen a clear difference in recovery quality when pain is effectively controlled from the start,” says Dr. Dammling, oral surgeon at Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery. “Exparel allows our patients to stay on track with post-op care, which ultimately leads to fewer complications and better outcomes.”
4. Less Anxiety for Patients and Parents
Many patients and their parents worry about being prescribed narcotics after oral surgery. Exparel offers peace of mind by delivering strong, targeted relief without the risks of addictive medications, while still offering pain control.
Is Exparel Right for You?
Exparel may be a great option if you:
- Prefer to manage pain with fewer medications at home
- Want a smoother, more comfortable recovery experience
- Are concerned about taking opioids
- Have a history of sensitivity to narcotic medications
Top Wisdom Teeth Recovery Tips from Oral Surgeons
Here are a few wisdom teeth recovery tips to help you heal faster and more comfortably:
- Use ice packs for the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling
- Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed potatoes
- Avoid using straws or smoking to reduce the risk of dry socket
- Keep your head elevated while resting
- Follow your oral surgeon’s instructions for rinsing and cleaning
Why Patients Trust Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery for Wisdom Teeth Removal and Recovery
At Carolinas Center for Oral & Facial Surgery, our oral surgeons are committed to staying at the forefront of patient comfort and safety. We offer multiple advanced anesthesia and pain management options during and after our surgical procedures, including Exparel. If you’re planning to have your wisdom teeth removed and want to learn more about your recovery options, our team is here to help. Contact us today.
To learn more about the benefits of choosing an oral surgeon for your wisdom teeth removal, read our blog "Do I Need an Oral Surgeon to Remove My Wisdom Teeth?".
Back
