Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pain and Recovery

Pain in the entire row of teeth after wisdom tooth extraction?

Hello Doctor: Last week, I had my lower right horizontal wisdom tooth extracted at the Veterans General Hospital.
The day after the extraction, I felt no pain, but discomfort started the following day.
Five days later, I went to a clinic to have the stitches removed.
The doctor at the clinic said the wound was healing normally.
Now, exactly one week later, I am experiencing severe pain when touching my canine tooth and the tooth behind it, while the two molars near the extracted wisdom tooth are relatively less painful.
I would like to ask if this situation is normal?

Mr. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/15

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry

Dear Mr.
Li,
Hello! Based on what you described, it seems quite serious, but it is likely unrelated to your wisdom teeth.
An X-ray is necessary to monitor your condition.
Please communicate frequently with your physician.
Thank you! Wishing you good health!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Reply Date: 2017/03/15

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is common to experience pain and discomfort as part of the healing process. However, the nature and duration of this pain can vary significantly from person to person. In your case, it seems that you initially experienced a typical recovery, with pain subsiding after the first day. However, the onset of pain in the canine and the tooth behind it after a few days raises some concerns.

Firstly, it is important to understand that after the extraction of a wisdom tooth, especially if it was impacted or required surgical intervention, the surrounding teeth and tissues can be affected. The pain you are experiencing in the canine and the adjacent tooth could be due to several factors:
1. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain from the extraction site can radiate to nearby teeth. This is often due to inflammation or irritation of the surrounding tissues.

2. Dry Socket: This is a common complication that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site either dissolves or dislodges before the wound has healed. This can lead to severe pain and may require further treatment.

3. Infection: If the extraction site becomes infected, it can lead to increased pain and swelling. Signs of infection may include fever, increased swelling, or pus discharge.

4. Nerve Irritation: The extraction process can sometimes irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain in adjacent teeth.

5. Occlusal Issues: If the extraction has altered your bite or the way your teeth come together, it could lead to discomfort in other teeth.

Given that you are experiencing significant pain in the canine and adjacent tooth, it is advisable to follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon. They may want to perform a clinical examination and possibly take X-rays to rule out any complications such as dry socket or infection.

Pain Management and Recovery Tips
1. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. If these are not effective, your dentist may prescribe stronger pain medication.

2. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief from pain.

3. Salt Water Rinse: After the first 24 hours, gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help keep the extraction site clean and promote healing.

4. Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods and avoid anything that requires excessive chewing, as this can aggravate the area.

5. Follow-Up Care: Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any complications early.

6. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the pain worsens or you develop new symptoms (such as fever or swelling), contact your dentist immediately.

In summary, while some discomfort after wisdom tooth extraction is normal, the specific pain you are experiencing in your canine and adjacent tooth warrants further evaluation. It is essential to communicate openly with your dental care provider about your symptoms to ensure a smooth recovery.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Extraction Pain: Insights on Wisdom Tooth Recovery

I recently had my lower left wisdom tooth extracted, and for the first 1-2 days, I experienced significant swelling and pain, which even radiated to my ear and caused sharp pain when I drooled. After 3-4 days, the symptoms gradually improved, but on the evening of the fourth day,...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: Typically, stitches are removed about 7 days later. It is recommended to inform your physician of any discomfort during your follow-up visit. If you experience fever, difficulty breathing, or severe discomfort such as jaw clenching during this period, it is advisable to se...

Post-Operative Discomfort After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: What to Expect

Hello Doctor: I underwent the extraction of my lower right wisdom tooth on March 13. I had my stitches removed a week later. Since the surgery, I have been experiencing a tingling and swollen sensation in my lower teeth, lips, and chin. I am also unable to open my mouth (I can ba...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Vicki, Hello! After the extraction of your horizontal wisdom teeth, please apply ice packs for 20 minutes every hour during the first two days post-surgery. Additionally, it is important to maintain oral hygiene for one week. Take care! Wishing you a smooth and safe rec...

Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Dealing with Discomfort and Pain

I recently had my wisdom teeth extracted, but now I have a slight stabbing pain in the gum tissue, which is a bit uncomfortable.

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: If you experience a fever lasting more than 48 hours after tooth extraction, along with difficulty swallowing or breathing, please seek medical attention promptly. If you are experiencing general redness, swelling, heat, and pain, it is recommended to follow up at your ori...

Persistent Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Is It Normal?

It has been seven days since my wisdom tooth extraction, and I still have stitches. The gums around the molar in front of the wisdom tooth have been persistently aching. Rinsing my mouth, coming into contact with water, or even gently pulling on it causes severe pain, and the nea...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
If you are still experiencing pain a week after having your wisdom teeth removed, it may be due to a large wound from the extraction or the removal of an impacted wisdom tooth, which can make it difficult to keep the wound clean and may lead to inflammation. It is recommended to ...