Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Jaw Pain and Limited Mouth Opening - Dentistry

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After having wisdom teeth removed, experiencing pain when opening the mouth and a feeling of the joint getting stuck?


A week after having my wisdom teeth removed, I can only open my mouth about one finger width.
When I returned for a follow-up, the doctor was able to open it to three finger widths, but when I practice opening my mouth at home while applying heat, I feel a catch in the joint when I reach three finger widths.
It becomes difficult and painful to close my mouth, and I also feel pain near my ear.
I have been trying to open my mouth smoothly, using heat therapy and practicing for several days (I have also taken muscle relaxants), but my condition does not seem to improve.
Yawning is very painful, and I can't open my mouth wide enough to do so.
I would like to ask the doctor what I should do.
The dentist I consulted mentioned that if I don't stretch the joint soon, it could become fibrotic, and I may not be able to open it at all in the future.
Currently, when I open my mouth, it tilts towards the side where the teeth were extracted, and I can't brush the inside of my mouth properly.
I'm really at a loss about what to do.

Xing, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/19

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry


Hello, you may have had pre-existing factors related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders before the tooth extraction.
Extracting wisdom teeth requires opening the mouth wide, which can lead to dislocation of the meniscus in the TMJ, causing the affected joint to become stuck and resulting in deviation towards the affected side when opening the mouth.
Additionally, the synovial bursa may become inflamed and painful.
To alleviate this as quickly as possible, you may consider receiving a corticosteroid injection into the joint (in a small amount), and you can also apply heat to the area, which should help relieve the discomfort.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng, Director of Dentistry, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2012/08/19

More Info


After a wisdom tooth extraction, it's not uncommon to experience jaw pain and limited mouth opening, a condition known as trismus. This can occur due to inflammation, muscle spasms, or even damage to the surrounding tissues during the extraction process. In your case, it seems that despite your efforts to practice opening your mouth and applying heat, you're still experiencing significant discomfort and limited mobility.

Firstly, it's important to understand that the healing process after a wisdom tooth extraction can vary greatly from person to person. Factors such as the complexity of the extraction, individual pain tolerance, and pre-existing conditions can all influence recovery. The pain and limited opening you're experiencing could be due to several reasons:
1. Muscle Spasms: The muscles around your jaw may be spasming due to the trauma of the extraction. This can lead to stiffness and difficulty in opening your mouth.

2. Inflammation: Post-operative inflammation can cause swelling in the area, which may restrict movement and cause pain.

3. Joint Issues: If the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is affected during the extraction, it can lead to pain and difficulty in moving the jaw.

4. Fibrosis: If the jaw remains immobile for an extended period, there is a risk of fibrous tissue forming, which can further limit movement.

Given your symptoms, here are some recommendations to help alleviate your discomfort and improve your mouth opening:
- Continue Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress to the jaw can help relax the muscles and reduce pain. Make sure to do this for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

- Gentle Stretching Exercises: While it may be painful, gentle stretching exercises can help improve your range of motion. Try to gradually increase the distance you can open your mouth without forcing it. You can use your fingers to gently push against your chin to help stretch the muscles.

- Medications: If you haven't already, consider discussing with your dentist or oral surgeon about taking anti-inflammatory medications or muscle relaxants to help ease the pain and reduce muscle spasms.

- Physical Therapy: If your symptoms persist, you might benefit from seeing a physical therapist who specializes in jaw disorders. They can provide targeted exercises and treatments to help restore function.

- Follow-Up with Your Dentist: Since you mentioned that your dentist warned about the risk of fibrosis, it’s crucial to keep them updated on your progress. If your condition does not improve or worsens, a follow-up appointment is necessary. They may need to assess the situation further, possibly with imaging studies, to rule out any complications.

- Avoid Straining Your Jaw: Try to avoid activities that require wide mouth opening, such as yawning or eating large bites, until your symptoms improve.

In conclusion, while it’s normal to experience some discomfort and limited mobility after wisdom tooth extraction, persistent pain and difficulty opening your mouth should be addressed promptly. By following these recommendations and maintaining communication with your healthcare provider, you can work towards a more comfortable recovery. Remember, healing takes time, and it’s essential to be patient with your body as it recovers.

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