Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Gum Swelling and Jaw Discomfort Explained

Q: Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Gum Swelling and Jaw Discomfort Explained

Hello： It is normal for the gums around the extraction site to be red, swollen, and bleeding; however, if there is a foul odor or pus, you should return for a follow-up appointment immediately. <br>Opening your mouth too wide during the extraction can indeed lead to temporomandib

After the extraction of the lower right wisdom tooth, the gums of the two molars in front of the wisdom tooth are swollen. When moving the head during sleep, there is a sensation of looseness in the right side of the mandible?

Hello, after having my lower right wisdom tooth extracted on January 14, it has been about a week.
Besides the swelling at the extraction site, the gums around the two adjacent molars are also swollen and have not subsided.
Is this normal? Additionally, at night when I move my head, such as lifting or turning it, I feel a sort of looseness in the right side of my jaw accompanied by a dull ache.
Could this be a dislocation? I did not experience this issue during the extraction, but it appeared around the fourth day post-surgery.

Elisa, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/20

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: It is normal for the gums around the extraction site to be red, swollen, and bleeding; however, if there is a foul odor or pus, you should return for a follow-up appointment immediately.
Opening your mouth too wide during the extraction can indeed lead to temporomandibular joint injury, which may include conditions such as myofascial pain or subluxation.
It is advisable to inform your dentist during your follow-up visit so they can prescribe muscle relaxants to alleviate the symptoms.
Sincerely, Lin Chia-Yung, Department of Dentistry, Taichung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2022/01/20

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, particularly for a lower impacted tooth, it is common to experience some degree of swelling and discomfort in the surrounding areas, including the gums and adjacent teeth. The swelling you are observing in the gums around your molars is not unusual and can be attributed to the surgical trauma from the extraction. This inflammation can take several days to resolve, and it is important to monitor the situation to ensure that it is not indicative of an infection or other complications.

Typically, swelling peaks within the first 48 to 72 hours post-surgery and then gradually subsides. However, if the swelling persists beyond a week or worsens, it may warrant further evaluation by your dentist or oral surgeon. They can assess for signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus, which would require prompt treatment.

Regarding the sensation of looseness or a "dislocating" feeling in your jaw when moving your head, this could be related to several factors. After dental surgery, the muscles and ligaments around the jaw can become tense or strained due to the procedure and the subsequent healing process. This tension can lead to discomfort or a feeling of instability, especially when moving your head or jaw. It is unlikely that this sensation is due to a dislocation, especially since you did not experience this during the extraction.

If you are feeling persistent discomfort or if the sensation of looseness continues, it may be beneficial to consult with your dentist. They can perform a thorough examination to ensure that your jaw joint (temporomandibular joint, or TMJ) is functioning properly and that there are no underlying issues, such as muscle strain or TMJ dysfunction.

In the meantime, here are some recommendations to help manage your symptoms:
1. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the discomfort.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label.

3. Soft Diet: Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing to avoid aggravating the extraction site. Foods like yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes are good options.

4. Hydration: Stay hydrated, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the extraction site, leading to a painful condition known as dry socket.

5. Gentle Oral Hygiene: Maintain oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth with warm salt water after meals to keep the area clean. Avoid brushing directly over the extraction site for the first few days.

6. Follow-Up Care: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns.

In summary, while some swelling and discomfort are normal after wisdom tooth extraction, persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a professional. Your dentist can provide tailored advice and treatment options to ensure a smooth recovery. If you experience any severe pain, fever, or unusual symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

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