Black Tissue After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What Does It Mean?

After having wisdom teeth extracted, the next day the meat appears black, but there is no pain?

On the evening of July 25th, after having my wisdom tooth extracted, I noticed a white object on the gum.
The next day, July 26th, I ate three meals (using the other side of my mouth to chew).
In the evening, I looked in the mirror and saw that the gum where the wisdom tooth was removed had worsened, turning black and resembling mold on the surface.
However, it is not painful.
Please take a look, thank you!

Fu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/26

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Fu,
Hello! According to the attached image, I personally believe it is a hematoma (black) combined with sutures.
Basically, two days before the tooth extraction surgery, you should pay attention to bleeding issues.
If you do not bite down tightly on the gauze after the procedure, there may be a blood clot on it, or consuming food that is too hot may cause bleeding again.
However, it will resolve on its own, so don't worry! Within a week after the surgery, be cautious of infection.
In addition to regular brushing, using mouthwash for 30 seconds will help reduce the risk of infection! Communicate more with your doctor! Thank you! Wishing you safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2016/07/26

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it's not uncommon to notice changes in the appearance of the surgical site, including the presence of black tissue. This can understandably cause concern, especially if it appears to be worsening over time.
Firstly, it's important to recognize that the healing process after tooth extraction can vary significantly from person to person. The initial healing phase typically involves the formation of a blood clot at the extraction site, which is crucial for proper healing. As the days go by, this clot can change in appearance. The black tissue you are observing may be a result of several factors, including the presence of a blood clot that has dried out or necrotic tissue, which can occur if the healing process is disrupted.

In many cases, the black appearance could be due to a blood clot that has turned dark as it ages. This is generally not a cause for alarm as long as there are no accompanying symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, or discharge that suggests infection. However, if the tissue appears to be necrotic (dead tissue), it could indicate that the area is not healing properly, which might require medical intervention.

The white object you noticed initially could have been a part of the healing process, such as granulation tissue, which is a normal part of wound healing. However, if it has progressed to black tissue, it’s essential to monitor the situation closely. If the area continues to worsen or if you develop symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, or fever, it would be advisable to consult your dentist or oral surgeon for a thorough evaluation.

In terms of treatment, if the black tissue is indeed necrotic, your dentist may need to remove it to promote proper healing and prevent any potential complications, such as infection or delayed healing. They may also assess whether there is any underlying issue, such as dry socket, which can occur if the blood clot is dislodged too early.

In summary, while the presence of black tissue after wisdom tooth extraction can be concerning, it is not always indicative of a serious problem. However, close observation and communication with your healthcare provider are crucial. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to seek professional advice. Proper follow-up care is essential to ensure that your healing process is on track and to address any complications that may arise.

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