Is It Normal to Experience Severe Pain When Getting Wisdom Teeth Removed?

Is it normal to scream in pain when having a wisdom tooth extraction?

Hello Doctor, my family member had her wisdom tooth extracted due to pain.
About a week ago, she had the upper right wisdom tooth removed because the doctor said that although the pain was from the lower wisdom tooth, removing only the lower one would cause friction with the upper one, so they decided to extract the upper one first.
During this time, the lower wisdom tooth remained swollen and required medication, but it has since improved.
Today, she went to another clinic to have the lower wisdom tooth extracted.
They only administered one injection of anesthesia, and she told the doctor that she didn't feel very numb.
The doctor proceeded to extract the tooth without breaking it or any other intervention.
She screamed in agony as if she were dying; it wasn't just a dramatic reaction, as even those with a high pain tolerance found it extremely painful.
After the extraction, she cried, and it took over two hours of ice packing for her to feel better.
I find it strange that despite the patient's reaction, the doctor continued with the extraction.
I've heard of many people who experience little to no pain, or only mild discomfort.
The doctor mentioned that there was inflammation at the root of the tooth, which is why the anesthesia didn't reach the root.
Is this normal? Shouldn't more anesthesia have been administered? I'm very concerned about the potential pain other friends and family members might experience in the future, so I'm inquiring about this.
Thank you very much.

sho, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/04/14

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

The lower right wisdom tooth is painful due to inflammation, which is generally caused by improper positioning of the tooth, making it difficult to clean and leading to recurrent inflammation around the crown.
The upper right wisdom tooth needs to be extracted because if the lower right wisdom tooth is removed and the upper right wisdom tooth is not, it may continue to grow downward without an opposing tooth, causing it to irritate the gum tissue below.
Therefore, it is recommended to extract the upper right wisdom tooth at the same time as the lower right wisdom tooth.

During the extraction of wisdom teeth, local anesthesia is required, and individual responses to anesthetics can vary.
Some people may feel numbness easily, while others may require a larger dose of anesthetic to achieve the desired effect.
Additionally, if there are signs of infection at the extraction site, the effectiveness of the anesthetic may be compromised.
If the anesthetic is not effective, it may be necessary to increase the dosage or evaluate whether there is severe inflammation in the affected tooth.

Reply Date: 2007/04/14

More Info

Experiencing severe pain during or after wisdom tooth extraction can be a concerning issue, and it’s understandable to seek clarity on this matter. While some discomfort is expected during dental procedures, the intensity of pain can vary significantly from person to person. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what might be happening in such situations, along with some medical insights.

Firstly, it’s important to note that the pain experienced during wisdom tooth extraction can be influenced by several factors. One of the primary reasons for severe pain during the procedure is inadequate anesthesia. If the local anesthetic does not fully numb the area, the patient may feel significant discomfort when the dentist applies pressure to extract the tooth. In your case, the dentist mentioned that the root of the tooth was inflamed, which could have affected the efficacy of the anesthesia. Inflammation can increase the sensitivity of the nerves in the area, making it more challenging to achieve complete numbness.

Moreover, the complexity of the extraction itself can contribute to pain levels. Wisdom teeth, especially those that are impacted or have roots that are curved or deeply embedded in the jawbone, may require more forceful extraction techniques. If the tooth is not easily accessible or if it is in a position that complicates removal, the dentist may need to apply more pressure, which can lead to increased discomfort for the patient.

In terms of managing pain during the procedure, it is crucial for dental professionals to assess the patient's comfort continuously. If a patient expresses that they are still feeling pain despite the administration of anesthesia, the dentist should consider administering additional anesthetic. Communication between the patient and the dentist is vital; patients should feel empowered to voice their discomfort during the procedure.

Post-operative pain is also a common concern. After the extraction, it is normal to experience swelling and discomfort as the body begins to heal. Ice packs can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing relief. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also be effective in managing post-operative pain. However, if the pain is severe or persists beyond a few days, it is essential to follow up with the dentist, as this could indicate complications such as dry socket or infection.

Regarding your concern about future extractions for family or friends, it is advisable to ensure that they consult with a qualified oral surgeon or dentist who can evaluate their specific situation. A thorough pre-operative assessment can help identify any potential complications and allow for a tailored approach to anesthesia and pain management.

In conclusion, while some pain during wisdom tooth extraction can be normal, severe pain should not be overlooked. It is essential for dental professionals to ensure adequate anesthesia and to communicate effectively with their patients. If there are concerns about the procedure or the level of pain experienced, seeking a second opinion or consulting with a specialist may provide additional reassurance and care.

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