Post-Operative Pain and Healing After Lower Right Wisdom Tooth Extraction - Dentistry

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After undergoing the extraction of a lower right wisdom tooth, it is not uncommon to experience discomfort and unusual sensations in the surrounding areas. The situation you described, where you feel a bit of pain when biting down due to the cheek tissue encroaching into the area, can indeed be a normal post-operative phenomenon. This is often due to swelling and the healing process, which can cause the soft tissues in the mouth to shift slightly.

When a wisdom tooth is extracted, especially if it was impacted or required surgical intervention, the surrounding tissues can become inflamed and swollen. This swelling can lead to the cheek tissue moving into the space where the tooth used to be, which may cause discomfort when you bite down. It is also possible that the sutures used to close the extraction site are affecting the positioning of the surrounding soft tissues, leading to this sensation.

As for your concern about whether this will resolve after the stitches are removed, it is likely that once the swelling decreases and the tissues heal, this issue will improve. The healing process can take several weeks, and during this time, it is essential to follow your dentist's post-operative care instructions, which may include avoiding certain foods, maintaining oral hygiene, and possibly using saltwater rinses to promote healing.

If the discomfort persists or worsens, or if you notice any signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, or discharge from the extraction site, it is crucial to return to your dentist for a follow-up examination. They can assess the healing process and determine if any additional treatment is necessary.
In the meantime, here are some tips to help manage your discomfort and promote healing:
1. Pain Management: Continue to take any prescribed pain medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help alleviate discomfort.

2. Diet: Stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that could irritate the extraction site.

3. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the extraction site. You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing directly on the area until it has healed.

4. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing some relief.

5. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can irritate the healing tissues and increase the risk of complications.

6. Follow-Up Care: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure proper healing and address any concerns you may have.

In conclusion, while the sensation you are experiencing is not unusual, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and communicate with your dentist about any concerns. Healing takes time, and with proper care, you should see improvement in the coming weeks. If you have any doubts or if the situation does not improve, do not hesitate to reach out to your dental care provider for further evaluation.