Is It Normal to Feel Discomfort After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Q: Is It Normal to Feel Discomfort After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Hello： If the gum at the wound site has fully healed and there is no foul odor or purulent discharge, it is recommended to simply observe the situation and avoid any invasive treatments, allowing the body to heal itself. <br>This is a response from Dr. <br>Lin Chia-Yung, Departme

After the wisdom tooth extraction site has healed, it feels strange when moving the mouth?

Hello, doctor.
After having my upper wisdom tooth extracted, I developed alveolar osteitis.
During my follow-up appointment last week, the doctor mentioned that I have recovered about 80%, and the gum tissue seems to be healing well.
Previously, there was a noticeable cavity, but now it has become a small indentation, almost back to normal.
The wound does not hurt, but I feel a strange sensation when moving my mouth.
While brushing my teeth, I touched the bone behind where the wisdom tooth was removed.
It feels uncomfortable in that area when I open my mouth or move my jaw.
I apologize for not being able to describe it well, but it feels odd and somewhat congested, though not painful.
Is this normal? Or could it be that the alveolar osteitis is not completely healed yet? Thank you for your response.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/20

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If the gum at the wound site has fully healed and there is no foul odor or purulent discharge, it is recommended to simply observe the situation and avoid any invasive treatments, allowing the body to heal itself.
This is a response from Dr.
Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/04/20

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is quite common to experience some discomfort, and your situation seems to reflect typical post-operative sensations. When a wisdom tooth is removed, especially if it was impacted or if there was any complication such as dry socket (alveolar osteitis), the healing process can lead to various sensations in the mouth, including discomfort, pressure, or a feeling of something being "off" in the area where the tooth was extracted.

In your case, you mentioned that you had alveolar osteitis, which can cause prolonged discomfort even after the initial healing phase. The fact that your dentist has indicated that your healing is progressing well is a positive sign. However, it is not unusual to feel a sense of abnormality or discomfort in the area for some time after the procedure. This can be due to several factors:
1. Healing Process: After a tooth extraction, the body goes through a natural healing process. The bone and soft tissue need time to regenerate, and during this time, you may feel sensations that are different from what you experienced before the extraction. This includes feelings of tightness, pressure, or even a slight tingling sensation as nerves and tissues heal.

2. Bone Exposure: If you are feeling the bone where the tooth was extracted, it could be a normal part of the healing process. The gum tissue may not have fully covered the area yet, especially if there was significant bone removal during the extraction. This can lead to a sensation of discomfort or an "odd" feeling when moving your mouth.

3. Sensitivity: The surrounding teeth and gums may also be more sensitive after the extraction. This sensitivity can manifest as discomfort when brushing or moving your mouth, as the area is still adjusting to the absence of the tooth.

4. Inflammation: If there was any inflammation due to the extraction or due to the alveolar osteitis, this could contribute to ongoing discomfort. Inflammation can cause the surrounding tissues to feel tender or sensitive.

5. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, the anxiety surrounding dental procedures can heighten your awareness of sensations in your mouth. If you are particularly focused on the area, you may notice feelings that you would otherwise overlook.

Given that your dentist has indicated that your healing is progressing well, it is advisable to continue monitoring the situation. If the discomfort persists or worsens, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased swelling, redness, or discharge), you should reach out to your dentist for further evaluation. They may recommend additional treatments or interventions to ensure proper healing.

In summary, while discomfort after wisdom tooth extraction can be normal, it is essential to maintain open communication with your dental care provider. They can provide reassurance and guidance tailored to your specific situation, ensuring that your recovery is on track. Remember, healing can take time, and each person's experience may vary.

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