Severe Pain in Second Molar After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Causes and Solutions

Severe pain in the second molar after wisdom tooth extraction and suture removal?

Hello Doctor, on November 6th, I visited a nearby clinic due to severe pain in my lower right "second molar." I initially thought it was caused by a cavity, but the doctor diagnosed it as not having any cavities.
After reviewing the X-ray, the doctor believed the pain was due to the pressure from an impacted wisdom tooth, and I underwent wisdom tooth extraction.
A week later, on November 13th, I returned to have the stitches removed.
After the removal, the wound appeared to heal well, but the "second molar" in front of the wisdom tooth is still very painful.
Now, three days later, the pain persists.
It feels like a sharp pain when not touched, and even light contact causes severe pain, not to mention when eating.
Is this situation normal? What could be the possible reasons for this?

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/15

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear user, based on your description, you had your lower right wisdom tooth extracted a week ago.
After the stitches were removed, you noticed that your second molar is very painful.
It is common to experience some discomfort around the extraction site and adjacent teeth for a short period (a few days to a week) following wisdom tooth surgery.
The surrounding teeth may feel pain when biting or tapping.
It is advisable to monitor the pain symptoms to see if they gradually improve.
Temporarily avoid overly hard foods.
If the pain in your second molar persists, you should consult your dentist for further examination to determine if there are any other issues that require additional treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/11/15

More Info

Experiencing severe pain in the second molar after wisdom tooth extraction can be quite distressing, and it’s understandable to seek clarity on the potential causes and solutions. Based on your description, it seems that the pain in your second molar may be attributed to a few possible factors related to the extraction of the wisdom tooth.

Possible Causes of Pain in the Second Molar
1. Pressure from the Wisdom Tooth: If your wisdom tooth was impacted or positioned horizontally, it could have been exerting pressure on the adjacent second molar. This pressure can cause inflammation or irritation in the surrounding tissues, leading to pain even after the extraction.

2. Bone Trauma: During the extraction of a wisdom tooth, especially if it was impacted, the dentist may have had to manipulate the surrounding bone. This manipulation can sometimes lead to trauma or inflammation in the bone that supports the second molar, resulting in pain.

3. Nerve Irritation: The proximity of the lower wisdom teeth to the inferior alveolar nerve can sometimes lead to nerve irritation during extraction. This irritation can manifest as pain in the adjacent teeth, including the second molar.

4. Infection: Although your extraction site appears to be healing well, there is still a possibility of infection in the area, which could cause referred pain to the second molar. Signs of infection may include swelling, redness, or pus at the extraction site.

5. Dry Socket: This condition occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site dislodges or dissolves before the wound has healed, exposing the underlying bone and nerves. While this typically causes pain at the extraction site, it can also lead to discomfort in adjacent teeth.

6. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain from one area can be perceived in another due to the way our nervous system processes pain signals. The discomfort you feel in your second molar could be a referred pain from the extraction site or from the surrounding tissues.

Solutions and Recommendations
1. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain. If the pain is severe, your dentist may prescribe stronger medication.

2. Follow-Up with Your Dentist: It’s crucial to return to your dentist for a follow-up examination. They can assess the extraction site and the second molar to determine if there are any underlying issues, such as infection or bone trauma.

3. Warm Salt Water Rinses: Rinsing your mouth gently with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. It can also provide some relief from discomfort.

4. Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods that do not require much chewing to minimize discomfort while eating. Avoiding hot, cold, or spicy foods can also help reduce sensitivity.

5. Ice Packs: Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the extraction site can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing some pain relief.

6. Consider a Specialist: If the pain persists despite these measures, consider consulting an oral surgeon or a specialist in dental pain management. They can provide a more detailed evaluation and treatment options.

Conclusion
While it is not uncommon to experience some discomfort in adjacent teeth following wisdom tooth extraction, persistent or severe pain should not be overlooked. It is essential to communicate openly with your dental care provider about your symptoms so they can provide appropriate care and address any complications that may arise. Remember, timely intervention can often prevent more serious issues and help you return to normal function and comfort.

Similar Q&A

Managing Pain After Extraction of a Second Molar with Geminated Tooth

Hello Doctor, I have a supernumerary tooth on the upper left second molar. Initially, the doctor thought it was a hyperdontia and extracted it, but later discovered it was a geminated tooth with a shared nerve. After treatment, that tooth has been experiencing dull pain, sensitiv...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Hello Kelly! Based on your description, it is difficult to determine whether it is cellulitis. I recommend coming to the hospital for a detailed examination. Take care! Wishing you all the best! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry.

Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Common Issues and Relief Strategies

Hello, I had my upper and lower right wisdom teeth extracted on August 2nd. The lower one was a horizontal wisdom tooth that required incision and suturing, and both teeth were extracted with some force. About 3-4 days later, the outer side of my lower second molar became swollen...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: If there has been grinding on the alveolar bone, it can indeed be more painful. If there is a slight hematoma during percussion, it may also cause discomfort in the gum area. It is recommended to continue taking antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain relievers. Additionall...

Pain in Front Tooth After Extraction of Upper Second Molar: What to Do?

Hello doctor, I had my upper right second molar extracted today because it couldn't be treated. However, after the extraction, I noticed that the tooth in front of it hurts when I bite down. Could this pain be caused by inflammation from the removal of the molar? Do I need t...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. N, Hello! The second upper right molar has been extracted, and the adjacent tooth is experiencing pain. This could be due to inflammation caused by the extraction of the molar, or there may be an underlying issue. A clinical examination is necessary to determine the cau...

Post-Extraction Concerns After Upper Right Second Molar Surgery

Hello, Dr. Huang! I finally managed to get an appointment at a major hospital's oral surgery department (the clinic referred me). Three days ago, I underwent surgery to remove the upper right second molar, which had a root canal treatment and a crown placed thirty years ago ...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Ms. Hsieh, Hello! As mentioned, there is a possibility that extracting the upper right second molar may affect the sinus membrane (the roots of the upper posterior teeth often extend into the sinus). As long as you avoid vigorous exercise within one week after the extractio...