Severe Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Is It Normal?

After the extraction of the lower left wisdom tooth, there is still significant pain?

Hello Doctor: I had my wisdom teeth extracted at Taichung Veterans General Hospital on December 17.
For the first couple of days, I didn't experience much pain, but starting on the 20th, the pain became particularly intense, to the point that it wakes me up at night.
Is this normal? I have been taking my medication on schedule, but I will run out of it by the 21st.
Should I return for a follow-up appointment, or can I wait until the stitches are removed? Additionally, I have noticed a sour taste in my mouth, and there is some white discharge at the wound site.
Is this a sign of infection? I apologize for asking so many questions, and thank you for your help.

Yatong binghuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/21

Dr. Zhang Xiangyuan reply Dentistry

Dear user, based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing significant pain 2-3 days after having your wisdom teeth extracted.
It is advisable to return to your dentist for an examination to check for any abnormalities at the extraction site.
Additionally, the dentist can assess whether any adjacent teeth require treatment.
You may also request medication and any necessary interventions from your dentist.
A blood clot may be covering the wound, and the surface will gradually heal over time.
It is recommended to maintain good oral hygiene.
If you have further questions, you can also consult the dentist who performed the procedure.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/12/21

More Info

After wisdom tooth extraction, experiencing severe pain is not uncommon, but it can be concerning, especially if the pain intensifies several days post-surgery. Typically, patients may experience some discomfort for a few days following the procedure, but if the pain escalates significantly after a few days, it could indicate a complication.

In your case, since you mentioned that the pain started to become particularly severe around the 20th, it is essential to consider a few potential causes. One common issue that can arise after tooth extraction is dry socket (alveolar osteitis), which occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site either dissolves or becomes dislodged before the wound has healed. This condition can lead to severe pain and is often accompanied by a foul taste or odor in the mouth, which may explain the "acidic" taste you mentioned. The presence of white material at the extraction site could also be a sign of infection or necrotic tissue, which may require further evaluation.

It is crucial to follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon, especially since you are nearing the end of your prescribed pain medication. If the pain persists or worsens, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased swelling, redness, or discharge), you should seek immediate medical attention. Your dentist may need to examine the extraction site to determine if there is an infection or if dry socket is present.
In terms of managing your pain, it is essential to adhere to the prescribed medication regimen. If your pain relief medication is running out and you are still experiencing significant discomfort, do not hesitate to contact your dentist for advice. They may recommend additional pain management strategies or prescribe a stronger medication if necessary.

Regarding your question about whether you should wait until your next appointment to address these concerns, it is generally advisable to reach out to your dentist sooner rather than later if you are experiencing severe pain or other troubling symptoms. Early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure a smoother recovery.

In summary, while some pain after wisdom tooth extraction is normal, severe pain that worsens after a few days warrants further investigation. Contact your dentist to discuss your symptoms, and do not hesitate to seek care if you feel your condition is deteriorating. Your health and comfort are paramount, and timely communication with your healthcare provider is key to a successful recovery.

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