Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Dealing with Swelling and Stitches

Wisdom tooth extraction with suturing?

Hello Doctor: I had my upper and lower left wisdom teeth extracted yesterday.
The upper wisdom tooth was stitched with one suture, and the lower wisdom tooth had four sutures, which are touching my cheek.
After returning home, I noticed that my upper and lower teeth cannot come together without biting into the tissue.
Upon inspection, I found that almost half of the tooth in front of the lower wisdom tooth is covered by tissue.
My cheek is still very swollen.
Could this be due to the swelling, or is it related to the sutures? Should I return for a follow-up appointment for you to check it?

DCK, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/12/12

Dr. Zhuang Suhui reply Dentistry

Hello, it's possible to apply local ice packs to reduce swelling.
It's best to return to the original physician for further evaluation.

Reply Date: 2014/12/12

More Info

After a wisdom tooth extraction, it is common to experience swelling and discomfort, especially if multiple teeth were removed. The swelling you are experiencing is likely a natural response of your body to the surgical procedure. When teeth are extracted, particularly wisdom teeth, the surrounding tissues can become inflamed as part of the healing process. This inflammation can lead to swelling in the cheeks and jaw area, making it difficult to close your mouth completely or causing you to bite your cheek or gums unintentionally.

The stitches you mentioned are also a factor in your discomfort. Stitches are used to close the incision made during the extraction, and they can create a feeling of tightness or pressure in the area. If the stitches are pulling on the surrounding tissue, it may contribute to the sensation of not being able to fully close your mouth. Additionally, if the stitches are in contact with the adjacent teeth, it can create irritation, leading to further discomfort.

It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the swelling persists beyond a few days or worsens, or if you experience increased pain, fever, or any discharge from the extraction site, you should definitely return to your dentist or oral surgeon for a follow-up appointment. These could be signs of an infection or other complications that may require medical intervention.

In the meantime, here are some tips to help manage your symptoms:
1. Ice Packs: Applying ice packs to the outside of your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing some relief from pain.

2. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the package or those provided by your dentist.

3. Soft Diet: Stick to a soft diet for the first few days post-surgery. Foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies can help avoid irritation to the extraction site.

4. Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the extraction site. Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting, which can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the socket.

5. Follow-Up: If you have concerns about the stitches or the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist. They can assess whether the stitches are in the right place and if your healing is progressing as expected.

In conclusion, while some swelling and discomfort are normal after wisdom tooth extraction, it is crucial to keep an eye on your symptoms. If you feel that something is not right, or if your discomfort is severe, returning to your dentist for a check-up is advisable. They can provide a thorough examination and determine if any further treatment is necessary to ensure a smooth recovery.

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