Is It Normal to Have Eating Difficulties After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Q: Is It Normal to Have Eating Difficulties After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

Hello： The wound healing time is at least one week. <br>It is recommended to primarily consume liquid, high-calorie, and nutrient-rich foods, and to avoid hot, spicy, and irritating foods. <br>Additionally, monitor for any signs of fever or pus formation. <br>If there are any urg

It is difficult to eat after having wisdom teeth removed?

I had my wisdom teeth removed on February 2nd.
Since they were impacted, there was cutting and stitching involved.
As of today, February 4th, I am still unable to eat normally.
Whenever there is any pressure on the extraction site, I feel pain as if the tissue is being bitten, which prevents me from eating foods that require chewing.
Is this situation normal?

Pao Pao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/04

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: The wound healing time is at least one week.
It is recommended to primarily consume liquid, high-calorie, and nutrient-rich foods, and to avoid hot, spicy, and irritating foods.
Additionally, monitor for any signs of fever or pus formation.
If there are any urgent situations, it is important to return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2024/02/04

More Info

Experiencing difficulties in eating after wisdom tooth extraction is quite common, especially when the extraction involves surgical procedures like cutting and stitching, as is often the case with impacted or horizontally positioned wisdom teeth. The healing process can vary significantly from person to person, but there are several factors to consider that can help you understand your situation better.

Firstly, the extraction site is essentially a surgical wound, and it typically takes time for the tissues to heal. In general, the initial healing phase can take about one week, during which you may experience swelling, discomfort, and sensitivity in the area. It is normal to have pain when chewing or biting down, especially if the extraction site is still tender or if food particles come into contact with it. The sensation of "biting into flesh" that you describe is likely due to the surrounding gum tissue being inflamed or still healing.

During the first few days post-extraction, it is advisable to stick to a diet of soft foods that require minimal chewing. Foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups can provide necessary nutrition without putting stress on the healing area. Avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods is crucial, as these can irritate the extraction site and potentially lead to complications like dry socket, which is a painful condition that can occur when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges or dissolves.

If you are still experiencing significant pain or difficulty eating after a few days, it is essential to monitor for any signs of complications. Symptoms such as increased swelling, persistent bleeding, or fever may indicate an infection or other issues that require medical attention. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if the pain becomes unbearable, it is advisable to contact your dentist or oral surgeon for a follow-up evaluation.

In your case, since you had the extraction on February 2 and are still experiencing difficulties by February 4, it is within the realm of normalcy to feel discomfort. However, if this discomfort persists beyond a week or worsens, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation. Your dentist can assess the healing process and determine if any additional treatment is necessary.

In summary, while it is normal to have eating difficulties after wisdom tooth extraction, especially in the early days of recovery, it is essential to listen to your body. Stick to soft foods, avoid irritating substances, and keep an eye out for any concerning symptoms. If your situation does not improve or worsens, do not hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for guidance and support. Healing takes time, and ensuring that you follow proper aftercare instructions will help facilitate a smoother recovery process.

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