Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Swelling and Calcification

Q: Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Swelling and Calcification

Hello： The flat, pancake-shaped, and somewhat hard area on your right cheek is likely a result of soft tissue fibrosis caused by a previous inflammatory infection, somewhat similar to scar tissue. <br>As for whether there is calcification or other issues, further medical examinat

Is it possible for the swelling after wisdom tooth extraction to calcify so quickly, within 3 to 4 months?

Hello Dr.
Lin, I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted three months ago.
After the extraction, my right cheek was significantly swollen.
A month later, I was referred to a medical center for intraoral drainage (a small incision was made, so there were no stitches or follow-up appointments for stitch removal) and I took antibiotics for a week.
After another month, the swelling noticeably reduced (although there is still a lump that feels spherical and is not painful when pressed).
I then started massaging it (I think I applied a bit too much pressure).
After nearly a month of massage, the lump has almost disappeared, but now I have a concern that feels strange.
Although the spherical lump has nearly resolved and there are no obvious abnormalities upon close inspection, if I pinch the skin where the lump used to be, I can feel a flat, pancake-shaped tissue with a diameter of about 1.2 cm.
It is not painful but feels slightly hard (it is no longer spherical).
Normally, when pinching the skin, the area between my fingers would bulge due to elasticity, but this area is flat.
The color of this tissue is the same as the surrounding skin (just barely visible is a very faint coffee-colored mark from the initial bruise) and has a similar roughness (smoothness).
However, upon closer inspection, the tissue around this area appears to be slightly indented.

I would like to ask the doctor: 1) I have seen information online regarding calcification, which is my biggest concern.
Could this flat, pancake-shaped tissue be calcified tissue? After being swollen for 3 to 4 months, combined with somewhat heavy massage, could this have caused the lump resulting from the wisdom tooth extraction to calcify? 2) If it is not calcified tissue, based on the rough description above, could the doctor provide an idea of what this flat, pancake-shaped tissue might be? (Knowing what it is might alleviate my worries.) Will it gradually return to normal? Thank you, Dr.
Lin.

Hao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/23

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: The flat, pancake-shaped, and somewhat hard area on your right cheek is likely a result of soft tissue fibrosis caused by a previous inflammatory infection, somewhat similar to scar tissue.
As for whether there is calcification or other issues, further medical examination is necessary.
Generally speaking, the likelihood of soft tissue fibrosis naturally returning to its original normal state is low.
It is recommended that you consult a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon.

Reply Date: 2024/07/23

More Info

After undergoing wisdom tooth extraction, it is not uncommon to experience swelling and the formation of hard tissue in the area where the tooth was removed. Your description of a flat, pancake-like tissue that is firm but not painful raises some important considerations regarding healing and potential calcification.

1. Calcification Concerns: Calcification refers to the accumulation of calcium salts in body tissue, which can lead to hardening. In the context of post-surgical healing, it is possible for the body to deposit calcium in areas of inflammation or injury as part of the healing process. However, the presence of a firm, flat tissue does not necessarily indicate calcification. It could be a result of scar tissue formation, which is a normal part of the healing process after surgery. Scar tissue can sometimes feel different from the surrounding tissue and may appear firmer or less elastic.
Given that the swelling has significantly decreased over the past few months and that the area is no longer painful, it is likely that what you are feeling is not calcified tissue but rather a combination of scar tissue and possibly some residual inflammation. The fact that you have been massaging the area could also contribute to changes in the tissue, as manipulation can sometimes lead to alterations in how the tissue heals.

2. Nature of the Flat Tissue: The flat, firm tissue you describe could be a form of fibrous tissue that has developed as part of the healing process. After surgery, the body works to repair itself, and this can involve the formation of fibrous tissue that may feel different from normal skin. This tissue is typically benign and will often remodel over time.
It is important to monitor the area for any changes. If the tissue remains stable and does not change in size or become painful, it is likely a normal part of the healing process. However, if you notice any new symptoms, such as increased pain, swelling, or changes in color, it would be prudent to consult your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation.

3. Recovery and Monitoring: Healing after wisdom tooth extraction can vary significantly from person to person. While some individuals may heal quickly, others may experience prolonged changes in the tissue. The fact that you are noticing improvement is a positive sign. Over time, the body will continue to remodel the tissue, and it is possible that the flat area will become less noticeable as healing progresses.

In summary, while your concerns about calcification are valid, it is more likely that the flat tissue you are feeling is a result of normal healing processes, such as scar formation. Continued observation is key, and if you have any doubts or if the situation changes, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for a thorough examination. They can provide reassurance and, if necessary, further diagnostic evaluations to ensure that your healing is progressing as expected.

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