Is It Normal to Have Mouth Ulcers After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?

There is an ulcer at the extraction site after wisdom tooth removal?

On August 10, I just had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted, and I plan to return on August 17 to have the stitches removed.
In the first two to three days, there was no pain at the wound site, only a slight pulling sensation from the stitches and some facial swelling.
However, on the fourth and fifth days, the facial swelling did not decrease, and I started to notice a sharp pain in the extraction area when drinking water (which I did not experience in the previous days).
Upon closer inspection, I found something at the extraction site that resembles a canker sore in color and size, located near the typical dark, indented area that people mention after extraction.
It does not directly overlap but has some partial overlap.
I am not entirely clear about the condition inside the wound.
Is it normal for the extraction site to look like this, resembling a canker sore? Should I wait until my follow-up appointment in three days to discuss this with my doctor, or is it necessary to seek medical attention sooner?

fan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/14

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear netizen,
After having the lower right wisdom tooth extracted, you may notice a sore near the wound that resembles an oral ulcer.
It is not uncommon for oral ulcers to occur near the extraction site following a tooth extraction.
If you are experiencing pain or notice any abnormalities with the wound, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for examination and treatment.
You do not have to wait until the stitches are removed to seek care.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/08/14

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, it is not uncommon for patients to experience various symptoms, including mouth ulcers. These ulcers can arise due to several factors, including trauma to the oral mucosa during the extraction process, irritation from the surgical site, or even as a reaction to the anesthesia used during the procedure.
In your case, it seems that you are experiencing a new ulcer-like lesion at the extraction site, which is causing discomfort when drinking water. This could be a normal part of the healing process, especially if the area is still sensitive and inflamed. The presence of a dark, ulcer-like area adjacent to the extraction site may indicate that the tissue is still healing and that there is some irritation or inflammation present.
Typically, after a wisdom tooth extraction, the body goes through a healing process that can take several weeks. During this time, it is not unusual for the extraction site to appear different from the surrounding tissue. The initial healing phase may involve swelling, tenderness, and even the formation of a blood clot, which can sometimes be mistaken for an ulcer. If the area becomes particularly painful, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), it is essential to seek medical attention.

You mentioned that you are scheduled to return for suture removal on August 17. It would be prudent to wait until that appointment to discuss your concerns with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will be able to assess the healing process and determine if the ulcer-like lesion is a normal part of recovery or if it requires further intervention.
In the meantime, here are some recommendations to help manage your symptoms and promote healing:
1. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day, especially after meals. This can help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.

2. Avoid Irritants: Steer clear of spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction site. Stick to soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow.

3. Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, but be cautious with hot or cold beverages that may exacerbate sensitivity.

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

If you notice that the ulcer does not improve or worsens before your scheduled appointment, it would be wise to contact your dentist for an earlier evaluation. They may want to check for any underlying issues, such as an infection or a reaction to the surgical procedure.

In summary, while mouth ulcers can be a normal occurrence after wisdom tooth extraction, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Communication with your healthcare provider is key to ensuring a smooth recovery. If in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice.

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