Swollen Lymph Nodes After Tooth Extraction: When to Seek Medical Advice

Q: Swollen Lymph Nodes After Tooth Extraction: When to Seek Medical Advice

Hello： After tooth extraction, temporary lymphadenopathy may occur. <br>If pain persists for more than two weeks, if lymphadenopathy continues, or if there is a fever, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist or dentist for examination. <br>If none of these symptoms are pre

Swollen lymph nodes after tooth extraction?

Hello Dr.
Zheng,
I would like to ask you a question.
After having my right wisdom tooth extracted on the 11th of this month, I noticed swelling around the wound about a week later, along with some pus.
I also developed several sores on my tongue.
After taking antibiotics for a week, I gradually recovered, and now I'm just waiting for the wound to heal.
However, about 15 days later, I felt something on the right side of my jaw that feels like a lymph node.
It is movable and not visible externally.
When I press on it, there is only a slight pain, and sometimes it feels like it retracts and I can't feel it anymore.
I would like to know if tooth extraction can cause lymphadenopathy.
Is it usually necessary to see a doctor in this case, or if it doesn't continue to enlarge, can I just ignore it? Thank you for your help.

Kk, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/30

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: After tooth extraction, temporary lymphadenopathy may occur.
If pain persists for more than two weeks, if lymphadenopathy continues, or if there is a fever, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngologist or dentist for examination.
If none of these symptoms are present, you may monitor your condition at home.
Wishing you safety and health! Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/11/30

More Info

Swollen lymph nodes after a tooth extraction can be a concerning symptom, especially for individuals who have undergone dental procedures. In your case, it seems that you experienced some complications following your wisdom tooth extraction, including swelling, pus, and subsequent antibiotic treatment. The presence of a movable, slightly painful lump in the area of your jaw could indeed be related to the extraction and the body's response to infection or inflammation.

When a tooth is extracted, particularly wisdom teeth, it is not uncommon for the surrounding tissues, including lymph nodes, to react. Lymph nodes play a crucial role in the immune system, filtering out pathogens and responding to infections. After a dental procedure, especially one that may have involved infection, the lymph nodes in the area can become swollen as they work to fight off any residual infection or inflammation.

In general, if you notice swollen lymph nodes after a dental procedure, it is essential to monitor their size and any accompanying symptoms. Here are some guidelines on when to seek medical advice:
1. Duration: If the swelling persists for more than a couple of weeks without improvement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. While some swelling can be normal after an extraction, prolonged swelling may indicate an underlying issue.

2. Size and Consistency: If the lymph node continues to grow in size or becomes hard and fixed in place, this could be a sign of a more serious condition that requires evaluation.

3. Associated Symptoms: If you experience additional symptoms such as fever, increased pain, difficulty swallowing, or any signs of systemic infection (like chills or night sweats), you should seek medical attention promptly.

4. Pain Level: Mild discomfort can be expected, but if the pain intensifies or becomes severe, it is worth discussing with your dentist or physician.

5. Changes in Appearance: If the lymph node becomes red, warm to the touch, or shows signs of drainage, these could be indicators of an infection that needs treatment.

In your case, since you have already experienced complications from the extraction and have been on antibiotics, it would be prudent to follow up with your dentist or a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies, to determine if there is any ongoing infection or other issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, while swollen lymph nodes can be a normal response to dental procedures, it is essential to monitor their behavior and associated symptoms. If you have any doubts or concerns, especially given your recent history of complications, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide the necessary guidance and treatment options to ensure a full recovery.

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