How Long After Wisdom Tooth Extraction Can You Eat Normally?

How long after wisdom tooth extraction can I eat on that side?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to ask you some questions.
I had my upper and lower left wisdom teeth extracted at the beginning of October.
The procedure took almost an hour for both teeth, and I had stitches.
Once the anesthesia wore off, the pain became unbearable, and I had to return to the hospital.
Naturally, there was significant swelling post-surgery, peaking around days 3 to 4.
I initially thought it would be similar to what I read online, where the swelling would subside in 4 to 5 days, but a week later, it still hadn't gone down.
After seeking treatment, the doctor mentioned that I had mild cellulitis and helped me remove the stitches early and clean the area.
I took antibiotics for two weeks and also inquired about some issues, such as discomfort around the nearby teeth, pain when tapping, and discomfort while biting.
The doctor tapped around and said that only the upper and lower last molars hurt when tapped, which is normal as the bone and nerves are healing.
He also mentioned that it is normal for the second-to-last molars to frequently swell and be uncomfortable, advising me to monitor it for three months without too much worry.

Now, a month later, I have been eating on the right side, but the back teeth on that side are already in poor condition and may require root canal treatment.
Recently, both upper and lower right teeth have started to ache, and with midterms and late nights, the discomfort has worsened.
However, the area where I had my wisdom teeth extracted still feels odd when I bite down, and there is a slight pain.
I am really worried that if I continue to bite on the right side, those teeth might not hold up.
Recently, even my facial joints have started to hurt.

I would like to ask: 1.
How long after wisdom tooth extraction can I normally bite down on that side? 2.
Is my current condition still considered normal? What if the pain persists after three months?

Jiang Xiaojie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/11

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear user, based on your description, it appears that you underwent the extraction of your upper left and lower left wisdom teeth about a month ago and are experiencing occlusal pain in the adjacent teeth.
It is recommended that you choose softer foods in your diet and avoid biting into hard foods.
Maintain good oral hygiene and adhere to a regular daily routine.
Monitor the symptoms of the adjacent teeth after the extraction to see if they gradually improve.
If the pain persists or if there are signs of inflammation or swelling at the extraction site, it is advisable to return for a follow-up appointment with your dentist for an evaluation to determine if further treatment is necessary.
Thank you for your inquiry.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2015/11/11

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, the timeline for returning to normal eating habits can vary significantly from person to person, depending on several factors including the complexity of the extraction, individual healing responses, and any complications that may arise. Generally, most patients can start eating normally within a week to ten days after the procedure, but this can be influenced by factors such as swelling, pain, and the presence of any infections.

In your case, it seems that you experienced some complications, including significant swelling and a diagnosis of cellulitis, which can prolong the healing process. The fact that you had stitches and required antibiotics indicates that your extraction was more complicated than a straightforward procedure, which is not uncommon with wisdom teeth.
1. When Can You Bite Normally?
After wisdom tooth extraction, it is advisable to avoid chewing on the extraction site for at least a week. If you are still experiencing discomfort or pain when biting down on that side after a month, it may indicate that your healing process is still ongoing or that there may be other underlying issues, such as bone or nerve irritation. Generally, you should be able to start using that side for soft foods around 7-10 days post-extraction, but full normal function may take longer, especially if there are complications.

2. Is Your Current Condition Normal?
Given that you are still experiencing pain and discomfort a month after the extraction, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Some degree of discomfort can be expected, especially if you had a complicated extraction, but persistent pain, swelling, or any new symptoms should be evaluated by your dentist or oral surgeon. The pain in your jaw joints could also be related to compensatory chewing patterns, as you have been favoring one side of your mouth. This can lead to strain on the muscles and joints of the jaw, potentially causing temporomandibular joint (TMJ) discomfort.

3. What If Pain Persists After Three Months?
If you find that you are still experiencing pain after three months, it is crucial to follow up with your dental care provider. They may want to conduct further examinations, such as X-rays, to ensure that there are no retained roots, infections, or other complications. Chronic pain could also indicate issues such as dry socket, nerve damage, or even issues related to the adjacent teeth that may need to be addressed.

In the meantime, it is advisable to continue eating soft foods and avoid hard or crunchy items that could aggravate the extraction site. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also crucial to prevent any further complications. If you have any concerns about your healing process or if your symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your dentist for a thorough evaluation. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and help ensure that your recovery progresses smoothly.

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