Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Managing Pain and Recovery Concerns

Post-operative issues after wisdom tooth extraction?

Hello Dr.
Huang: I had my lower right wisdom tooth extracted on December 15, which was a surgical procedure, and I had two stitches that were removed on December 22.
However, in the past few days, I have frequently felt soreness and sharp pain in the area of my lower jaw near the extraction site, and even the molar in front of the extraction site feels achy.
I have asked my doctor for more anti-inflammatory and pain relief medication, but I don't want to rely too much on medication, so I have been enduring it.
Although it doesn't significantly affect me, it is quite bothersome.
I am scheduled to travel abroad on the 28th.
Should I see a doctor again, continue taking the anti-inflammatory medication, or will it gradually heal on its own? If I need to see a doctor, I live right next to Taoyuan Hospital, which makes it convenient for me to seek medical attention.
I hope Dr.
Huang can provide me with some guidance! Thank you.

Huynee, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/23

Dr. Huang Zhicheng reply Dentistry

Dear Huynee,
Hello.
After the removal of your wisdom teeth, in addition to the larger wound being prone to infection and inflammation, the second molar in front may also experience sensitivity due to the exposure of the roots after the extraction of the wisdom tooth.
Once the wound heals and the bone regrows, this discomfort should improve and should not be too painful.
You can monitor the situation.

Wishing you safety and good health.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Huang Chih-Cheng
Director of Dentistry
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2015/12/23

More Info

After a wisdom tooth extraction, especially a surgical one, it's common to experience some discomfort and pain during the recovery process. The symptoms you're describing, such as aching and sharp pain near the extraction site and even in the adjacent molar, can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process.

Firstly, it's important to understand that after the extraction of a tooth, the surrounding tissues, including the gums and bone, undergo a healing process. This can lead to inflammation and discomfort, which may manifest as pain in the area. The fact that you had stitches and they were removed a week later indicates that your body is still in the process of healing. It's not unusual for patients to experience pain for several days to weeks following the procedure, especially if the extraction was complicated.

The pain you're feeling could also be a result of referred pain from the extraction site affecting nearby teeth. The nerves in the jaw can sometimes transmit pain signals from one area to another, leading to discomfort in adjacent teeth. Additionally, if there was any trauma to the surrounding tissues during the extraction, this could also contribute to lingering pain.

Regarding your concern about medication, while it's understandable to want to avoid over-reliance on painkillers, managing pain effectively is crucial for your overall recovery. If your doctor has prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, it can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain, making your recovery more comfortable. However, if you feel that the pain is manageable without medication, you might choose to monitor your symptoms and see if they improve over time.

As for your upcoming travel plans, if the pain persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult your dentist or oral surgeon before you leave. They can assess whether your symptoms are within the normal range of post-operative recovery or if there might be an underlying issue, such as an infection or dry socket. A dry socket occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves underneath, which can lead to significant pain and requires treatment.

In summary, while some discomfort after wisdom tooth extraction is normal, it's essential to keep an eye on your symptoms. If the pain becomes severe, or if you notice any signs of infection (such as increased swelling, redness, or pus), you should seek medical attention promptly. If the pain is mild and manageable, you might consider continuing your current approach while monitoring your symptoms. Always prioritize your health and comfort, especially before traveling. If in doubt, a quick visit to your dentist for peace of mind is always a good idea. Safe travels!

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Extraction Pain: Causes and Management Tips

Hello Doctor: I have always had healthy teeth, but recently my right gum has been swelling frequently, causing pain that makes it difficult to sleep. After consulting with my dentist, I was advised to have my lower right wisdom tooth extracted. The extraction went smoothly on the...

Dr. Wu Jinjun reply Dentistry
Hello: Wisdom tooth extraction surgery is generally considered a complex invasive procedure in oral treatment. Sometimes, due to the position of the wisdom tooth being too deep or too close to the neurovascular structures, discomfort may occur shortly after the extraction. This u...

Managing Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction: When to See Your Dentist

Hello, I had surgery five days ago (on May 25) at a large hospital to remove my upper and lower wisdom teeth. I have been applying ice packs as needed, and my wound is healing well. I have been using dental floss and mouthwash (prescribed by my doctor) after each meal for cleanin...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear (TTДTT): Hello! There is an issue with your wound; please return to the hospital for an examination as soon as possible! Thank you! Wishing you safety! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry.

Understanding Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pain: Common Concerns

After having my upper and lower left wisdom teeth extracted (the upper tooth has erupted, and the lower tooth has partially emerged), I did not experience significant pain on the first day. However, today is the third day, and the pain has become more pronounced. I applied ice pa...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: 1. If a wound is infected, it will affect the healing speed. 2. Changes in posture, along with blood pressure and the effects of the parasympathetic nervous system. 3. It is necessary to consider whether the long-term use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications has ...

Post-Wisdom Tooth Extraction: Understanding Pain and Recovery Tips

Hello, Doctor. I had my lower left horizontal wisdom tooth extracted on December 20, 2022. At that time, the doctor informed me that the tooth was larger and grew deeper, putting pressure on the nerve, and mentioned that they would need to grind and remove a bit of the surroundin...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
After the extraction of the wisdom tooth, there is significant bone loss in the alveolar ridge (due to contact with the bone), resulting in incomplete coverage of the roots of the teeth in front of the wisdom tooth (especially at the distal end). This can lead to sensitivity and ...