Post-Wisdom Tooth Pain: Swelling and Discomfort in Jaw and Cheek

Post-operative pain and swelling of the gums after wisdom tooth extraction, with swelling of the left cheek and tenderness upon light pressure on the left jaw?

Dear Dr.
Lin,
I received your letter today.
Yesterday, I posted a message with the reference number 108052, titled: "I would like to ask about the inflammation and swelling of the gums behind my wisdom teeth." This morning, I observed the swollen area again, and it has completely covered the small portion of my wisdom tooth that had emerged.
The left side of my cheek is more swollen than the right side.
Last night, I noticed some swelling in the lower left jaw, which is tender to the touch.
After taking anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication last night, I felt some discomfort in my lower teeth.
Around 3:00 to 4:00 AM, I also felt a bit of discomfort in my ear, but when I woke up this morning, the ear discomfort was gone.
However, there is still swelling from my cheek to the jawbone area.
When I brushed my teeth this morning, opening my mouth was painful and uncomfortable; I could only slightly open it.
Now, after taking pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication, it is not as uncomfortable to open my mouth.
Given these symptoms, would you recommend that I go to the emergency room for treatment? Should I still see a dentist for the symptoms and swelling? This is the first time I have experienced something like this, and I really don't know how to handle it! I apologize for continually asking you questions! Thank you for your assistance.

Phoebe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/29

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello, I suggest that you first follow up at the original location where the tooth was extracted.
If you still have concerns, you may also go to a larger hospital for a detailed examination.
Seeking medical attention promptly will provide you with more peace of mind! Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lin Chia-Yung, Director of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/06/29

More Info

Post-wisdom tooth extraction pain and swelling can be quite common, and your symptoms indicate that you may be experiencing a typical reaction to the procedure. After the extraction of wisdom teeth, especially if they were impacted, it is not unusual for patients to experience swelling, discomfort, and even some degree of pain in the jaw and cheek areas.
The swelling you are experiencing on the left side of your face, which is more pronounced than on the right, is likely due to the body's inflammatory response to the surgical trauma. This inflammation can cause the tissues around the extraction site to swell, leading to discomfort and pain. The fact that you are feeling pain when opening your mouth and that the area around your lower jaw is tender to touch further supports this idea.
Additionally, the discomfort you felt in your ear could be related to the proximity of the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) to the ear, as inflammation in the jaw area can sometimes lead to referred pain in the ear. This is not uncommon and often resolves as the swelling decreases.

Given your symptoms, here are some recommendations:
1. Pain Management: Continue taking the anti-inflammatory and pain medications as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon. These medications can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen can also be effective if you are not already taking them.

2. Ice Application: Applying ice packs to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.

3. Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet to avoid putting pressure on the extraction site. Foods like yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes can be easier to manage.

4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the extraction site. Rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and promote healing.

5. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the swelling worsens, or if you develop a fever, increased pain, or any signs of infection (such as pus or a foul taste in your mouth), it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

6. Follow-Up: If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they worsen, it is advisable to contact your dentist or oral surgeon. They may want to examine the extraction site to ensure there are no complications, such as dry socket or infection.

Regarding your question about whether to visit the emergency room or a dental office, it is generally best to consult your dentist or oral surgeon first, as they are most familiar with your specific case and can provide targeted care. If you feel that your symptoms are severe or if you are in significant distress, visiting an urgent care center or emergency room may be warranted, especially if you cannot reach your dentist promptly.

In summary, while your symptoms are likely part of the normal healing process after wisdom tooth extraction, it is essential to monitor your condition closely and seek professional advice if you have any concerns. Your comfort and recovery are paramount, and your healthcare provider can help ensure that you heal properly.

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