Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Pain and Recovery

Q: Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Pain and Recovery

Hello： If 3 to 5 doctors have examined you and stated that everything is normal, it is advisable to relax and not be overly anxious. <br>Recovery and achieving balance in the body take time. <br>It is recommended to maintain a regular routine, ensure adequate sleep, and have prop

Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction?

Hello Dr.
Lin, I recently experienced sudden sharp pain that woke me up two nights in a row before it turned into a mild ache.
I first visited an ENT specialist at a large hospital, and the doctor said my oral cavity looked normal with no signs of any pathological issues.
Then, I went to the oral surgery department at the same hospital, where the doctor informed me that my upper right wisdom tooth was impacted, causing the pain, likely due to pressure on the gums.
However, it's strange because I initially visited a dental clinic, and the dentist found no issues.
I have since had both my upper and lower right wisdom teeth extracted, and they filled the sockets with collagen.
The lower right wisdom tooth had stitches and some bone was filed down.
It's been 15 days post-surgery, and I still feel a dull, mild pain that sometimes isn't present.
On the 14th day post-op, I returned to the oral surgery department to see the chief, who said the healing looked normal and that the swelling around the gums next to the teeth was also typical and would take time to heal.
Currently, I am brushing my teeth morning and night and using an alcohol-free mouthwash, but I can't see where the wisdom tooth socket is.
Is this a normal phenomenon, doctor? I'm quite worried and unsure how long it will take to heal.

max, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/02/28

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: If 3 to 5 doctors have examined you and stated that everything is normal, it is advisable to relax and not be overly anxious.
Recovery and achieving balance in the body take time.
It is recommended to maintain a regular routine, ensure adequate sleep, and have proper nutrition.

Reply Date: 2024/02/28

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is common to experience some level of discomfort or pain during the recovery process. The fact that you have already undergone the extraction of both your upper and lower right wisdom teeth and are now 15 days post-surgery is significant. While it is reassuring that your oral surgeon has examined your healing site and deemed it normal, it is understandable that you are still experiencing mild discomfort and have concerns about your recovery.

Understanding Post-Extraction Pain
1. Normal Healing Process: After wisdom tooth extraction, the body goes through a natural healing process. This can involve inflammation, which may cause swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gum tissue. It is normal for the extraction site to feel "dull" or "pressure-like" as it heals. The healing timeline can vary from person to person, but generally, significant discomfort should diminish within a week or two after the procedure.

2. Factors Influencing Recovery: Several factors can influence the duration and intensity of post-operative pain:
- Surgical Complexity: If the extraction was complicated (e.g., impacted teeth, bone removal), healing may take longer.

- Individual Healing Response: Each person’s body responds differently to surgery. Factors such as age, overall health, and pre-existing conditions can affect recovery.

- Infection or Dry Socket: While your surgeon has indicated that the healing is normal, it is essential to monitor for signs of infection (increased swelling, pus, fever) or dry socket (severe pain that typically occurs a few days after extraction when the blood clot dislodges).

3. Post-Operative Care: It sounds like you are following good post-operative care practices by using a non-alcoholic mouthwash and maintaining oral hygiene. Here are some additional tips:
- Continue Gentle Oral Hygiene: Continue brushing your teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site as much as possible until it heals.

- Warm Salt Water Rinses: After the first few days, gentle rinsing with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.

- Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be helpful. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

4. When to Seek Further Help: If your pain worsens or if you notice any signs of infection or complications, it is crucial to contact your oral surgeon or dentist. They may want to evaluate the site again to ensure that everything is healing as expected.

Conclusion
In summary, mild discomfort 15 days after wisdom tooth extraction can be part of the normal healing process, especially if the extraction was complex. It is essential to continue monitoring your symptoms and maintain good oral hygiene. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to your oral healthcare provider for further evaluation. Healing takes time, and being proactive about your recovery will help ensure the best outcome.

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