Post-Extraction Pain: Insights on Wisdom Tooth Recovery

Q: Post-Extraction Pain: Insights on Wisdom Tooth Recovery

Hello： Typically, stitches are removed about 7 days later. <br>It is recommended to inform your physician of any discomfort during your follow-up visit. <br>If you experience fever, difficulty breathing, or severe discomfort such as jaw clenching during this period, it is advisab

145 hours post-extraction of the lower left impacted wisdom tooth?

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, I felt intermittent sharp pain near the extraction site, accompanied by a pressure sensation that made me want to clench my teeth.
Initially, I noticed that the gum around my second molar was injured, and I wondered if it had been cut during the surgery, as I noticed some bleeding while brushing (though not a lot).
That same day, I cleaned the area, and the symptoms improved.
However, on the sixth day, I suddenly experienced pain again! This pain feels somewhat similar to the one on the fourth day, but upon closer inspection, it seems like my second molar is hurting? However, that tooth does not have any cavities.
After researching online, I found that exposed tooth roots can lead to sensitivity, and it was suggested that the discomfort might resolve as the gum tissue thickens over the next few days.
I would like to ask the doctor if this assessment is accurate.

Guo Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/18

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 seek emergency treatment.

Reply Date: 2022/09/18

More Info

After undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, it is common to experience a range of symptoms, including swelling, pain, and discomfort in the surrounding areas. Your description of the pain radiating to the ear and the sensation of pressure that makes you want to clench your jaw is not unusual. This can be attributed to several factors related to the extraction process and the healing of the surrounding tissues.

Firstly, the initial swelling and pain you experienced in the first few days post-extraction are typical. This is part of the body's natural inflammatory response to surgery. The pain can sometimes radiate to nearby areas, such as the ear, due to the shared nerve pathways in the region. The trigeminal nerve, which supplies sensation to the face, can cause referred pain, leading to discomfort in areas that may seem unrelated to the extraction site.

The sharp, intermittent pain you felt on the fourth day could be due to a few reasons. One possibility is that you might be experiencing "dry socket," a condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site either dissolves or becomes dislodged, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. This condition can lead to significant pain and is often characterized by a foul taste or odor in the mouth. However, since you mentioned that your symptoms improved after cleaning the area, it may indicate that there was some debris or food particles irritating the site.

Regarding the bleeding you noticed when brushing your teeth, it is not uncommon for the gums around the extraction site to be sensitive and bleed slightly, especially if they were disturbed during the extraction or if you are brushing too vigorously. It is essential to maintain gentle oral hygiene practices during the healing process. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoiding the extraction site initially can help minimize irritation.

As for the pain you are now experiencing in your second molar, it is possible that the extraction process may have caused some trauma to the adjacent teeth or gums, leading to sensitivity or discomfort. If the root of the second molar is exposed, it can indeed lead to increased sensitivity, particularly to temperature changes or pressure. This sensitivity should gradually improve as the gum tissue heals and covers the area more completely.

In terms of management, here are a few recommendations:
1. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, consult your dentist for further evaluation.

2. Oral Hygiene: Continue to maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the extraction site. Rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean and promote healing.

3. Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot, cold, or hard that could irritate the extraction site or the adjacent teeth.

4. Follow-Up: If the pain continues or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased swelling, fever, or pus), it is crucial to return to your dentist for a follow-up appointment. They can assess the healing process and determine if any further treatment is necessary.

In conclusion, while some discomfort and sensitivity are expected after wisdom tooth extraction, persistent or severe pain should not be ignored. It is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek professional advice if you have concerns about your recovery. Your dentist can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific situation and ensure that your healing process is on track.

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