Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Pain and Healing Concerns

Q: Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Pain and Healing Concerns

Hello： Regarding points 1, 2, and 3, since the physician has confirmed it, these should be considered normal phenomena, especially if there was any bone involvement; complete recovery may take about six months. <br>4. <br>If the inferior alveolar nerve was injured, even after the

Problems After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Hello Dr.
Lin, I am currently recovering from the extraction of my right wisdom teeth at a large hospital.
The upper right tooth was horizontally impacted, and the lower right tooth was a horizontally impacted tooth (embedded in the gum).
It has been 27 days post-surgery, and I received collagen injections at my own expense.
The lower right impacted tooth required some bone smoothing.
Recently, I have been feeling a slight soreness at the wound site, and occasionally I experience very mild pain.
Is this due to the wound not being fully healed? Is it normal to feel this way after so many days? I have returned to the hospital for a check-up with the oral surgeon, who confirmed that there is no inflammation or infection at the wound site, and no oral lesions are present.
The frequency of pain has decreased, but I still occasionally feel a strange sensation and slight pain.

1.
Currently, I feel a foreign body sensation in the lower right area.
2.
Sometimes the wound feels a bit sore, and occasionally there is mild pain.
3.
Is this normal?
4.
Is there a possibility that the nerve was damaged, and how long will it take to heal?
5.
I am very concerned about a story I read online about an 18-year-old student who experienced pain for two months after wisdom tooth extraction and was later diagnosed with oral cancer.
How could wisdom tooth extraction lead to cancer?

Xiao Ye, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/03/11

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry

Hello: Regarding points 1, 2, and 3, since the physician has confirmed it, these should be considered normal phenomena, especially if there was any bone involvement; complete recovery may take about six months.
4.
If the inferior alveolar nerve was injured, even after the anesthesia wears off, the patient would still complain of numbness during each follow-up visit.
Based on your description, it seems there was no injury.
5.
Every individual is a unique entity, and there is no need to compare oneself with others, especially since many factors contribute to physical health, making such comparisons meaningless.

Reply Date: 2024/03/11

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding your post-wisdom tooth extraction experience. It’s understandable to feel anxious about the healing process, especially after undergoing a surgical procedure like the extraction of impacted wisdom teeth. Let’s address your questions and concerns one by one.

1. Post-Extraction Pain and Discomfort: It is quite common to experience some level of discomfort, including a dull ache or a sensation of pressure, in the days and weeks following a wisdom tooth extraction, particularly if the tooth was impacted or if bone was removed during the procedure. The healing process can vary significantly from person to person, and while 27 days may seem like a long time, it is not unusual for some residual discomfort to persist as the tissues continue to heal. The fact that your pain is mild and infrequent is a positive sign.

2. Feeling of Foreign Body Sensation: The sensation of having something foreign in your mouth can occur as the tissues heal and adjust after surgery. This can be due to swelling, changes in the surrounding tissues, or even the presence of stitches (if they were used). If this sensation persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation.

3. Mild Pain and Acidity: Occasional mild pain or a feeling of acidity at the extraction site can be normal as the area continues to heal. However, it’s essential to monitor these symptoms. If they become more pronounced or are accompanied by swelling, redness, or discharge, it could indicate an infection or other complications that would require medical attention.

4. Nerve Damage Concerns: Nerve injury is a potential risk associated with wisdom tooth extractions, particularly for lower wisdom teeth that are close to the inferior alveolar nerve. Symptoms of nerve damage can include numbness, tingling, or persistent pain in the lower lip, chin, or tongue. If you are not experiencing these symptoms, it is less likely that nerve damage has occurred. Healing times can vary, but if nerve damage does occur, it may take weeks to months to resolve, and in some cases, it may not fully recover.

5. Concerns About Oral Cancer: It’s understandable to be worried after reading alarming stories online. However, the extraction of wisdom teeth does not cause oral cancer. Oral cancer can develop due to various risk factors, including tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain viral infections (like HPV). If you have concerns about oral cancer or any unusual symptoms, it is crucial to discuss these with your healthcare provider, who can perform the necessary evaluations.

In summary, while some discomfort and unusual sensations can be part of the healing process after wisdom tooth extraction, it’s essential to stay vigilant. Continue to follow up with your oral surgeon or dentist, especially if you notice any changes in your symptoms. They can provide you with the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery!
Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

[Your Institution/Practice]

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