Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pain and Recovery Tips

The pain started on the third day after the extraction of the lower right wisdom tooth?

Hello, it has been six days since I had my wisdom teeth extracted (on May 22).
There were no stitches, and after an hour, I removed the gauze and noticed a blood clot that came out with it, but the bleeding stopped quickly.
After about three to four hours post-extraction, there was no more bleeding, and I experienced no swelling or significant pain, so I didn't think much of it.
The next day, since the wound was not stitched, I was very worried about food getting into the socket, so I rinsed my mouth.
By the third day, I started to feel some pain, which I thought was due to the doctor cutting a deep area nearby during the extraction, leading to inflammation.
I bought an oral ulcer ointment to apply to the wound (without packing it into the socket).
On the fourth day, I thought food had gotten stuck in the socket and was causing inflammation and pain, so I went to the hospital to have the food debris cleaned out.
After the cleaning, I was given painkillers and antibiotics, but it felt like I developed dry socket afterward.
I couldn't sleep at all at night; lying flat caused excruciating pain.
My sleep was limited to three to four hours, and I was on the verge of a mental breakdown.
The painkillers and antibiotics didn't seem to help, but after reading some articles, I noticed I had no foul odor or swollen lymph nodes.
Therefore, I couldn't determine if I had dry socket.
If I did, shouldn't the doctor have informed me during the food cleaning on the fourth day? Instead, he only provided me with medication and told me that it would heal in three days because the exposure to air was causing the pain.
I then used the oral ulcer ointment (a transparent antiseptic ointment typically used to protect mouth abrasions, made in Japan) and packed it into the socket, which completely alleviated the pain, and there were no other abnormalities! There is no swelling or pain in the lymph nodes, and the doctor did not find any pain upon pressing any part of my face.
I can eat normally.

CHIA, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/22

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Hello, based on the above situation, I hope you will take your medication on time.
Please pay attention to oral hygiene, temporarily consume lighter foods, and avoid using straws for drinking.
You may be experiencing symptoms of inflammation, so please take the antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.
Additionally, I kindly ask you to return for a follow-up examination in a few days.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/05/22

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is common to experience some level of discomfort and pain as part of the healing process. The timeline for recovery can vary significantly from person to person, but typically, significant pain should subside within a few days to a week. In your case, it seems that you are experiencing pain six days post-extraction, which can be concerning, especially since you mentioned that you did not have any swelling or significant bleeding after the procedure.

From your description, it appears that you might be experiencing symptoms consistent with dry socket (alveolar osteitis), which is a common complication following tooth extractions, particularly wisdom teeth. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket after the tooth is removed either dissolves or becomes dislodged before the wound has fully healed. This can expose the underlying bone and nerves, leading to significant pain, especially when lying down or applying pressure to the area.

You mentioned that you have been using a mouth ulcer ointment and that it has provided relief. While it is important to keep the area clean and free from food particles, using ointments not specifically designed for post-extraction care may not be advisable. Instead, it is crucial to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon. These typically include:
1. Avoiding Straws and Smoking: Both can create suction that may dislodge the blood clot.

2. Gentle Oral Hygiene: Avoid brushing the extraction site for the first few days. Instead, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage discomfort. If prescribed, follow your dentist's instructions regarding any stronger pain medications.

4. Dietary Modifications: Stick to soft foods and avoid anything that could irritate the extraction site.

Regarding your concern about using the mouth ulcer ointment, while it may provide temporary relief, it is not a substitute for proper healing. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as fever, increased swelling, or pus), it is essential to return to your dentist for a follow-up evaluation. They can assess the site for any complications, including dry socket or infection, and provide appropriate treatment.

In conclusion, while it is encouraging that you are not experiencing swelling or other severe symptoms, the pain you are experiencing warrants attention. It is best to consult your dentist to ensure that your recovery is on track and to rule out any complications. Continuing to monitor your symptoms and adhering to proper aftercare will be key to a smooth recovery. If you find that the pain returns or if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to seek professional advice.

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