Get Well Soon

Helping you make a speedy recovery after removal of wisdom teeth

Returning to work

Fact: Work can be part of your recovery

Everyone needs time off to recover after an operation – but too much of it can stand in the way of you getting back to normal. Getting back to your normal routine sooner rather than later can actually help you to recover more quickly.

Getting back to work

How quickly you return to work depends on a number of things:

• How you heal
• How you respond to surgery
• Whether you have had a local anaesthetic, conscious sedation or a general anaesthetic
• The type of job you do

How soon can I go back?

Every person recovers differently and has different needs. Removal of wisdom teeth is a relatively minor procedure and most individuals who are doing administrative roles will normally be back at work 1–3 days after the surgery.

Many people take 2 days off work, including the day of the operation, while others take 3 days, particularly if they have had several teeth removed at the same time, and/or had a general anaesthetic.

People whose work involves heavy physical activity, or work that is more physically demanding, should take it easy for 3–4 days after the operation before resuming physically demanding tasks.

Contact sports or roles involving control and restraint should be avoided for a little longer, but are best discussed with your surgeon.

If your employer has an occupational health nurse or doctor, they will advise you. Alternatively, your GP can do so, but ultimately, it’s your decision about when you return to work.