Wisdom teeth extraction is a routine dental procedure to remove third molars, which often emerge in the late teens or early twenties. These teeth can cause problems if they lack space to erupt properly or become impacted. Swelling in the mouth and facial area is a normal part of the healing process after extraction, as the body reacts to surgical trauma.
Expected Swelling Timeline
Swelling typically begins within the first few hours following wisdom teeth removal. The most significant swelling usually occurs between 48 to 72 hours post-surgery. During this period, patients may notice pronounced puffiness around the cheeks and jaw, sometimes accompanied by bruising.
After reaching its peak, swelling generally starts to subside around day four or five. Noticeable swelling significantly reduces within 7 to 10 days for most individuals. However, some minor puffiness or tenderness might persist for up to two weeks, especially after more complex extractions.
Several factors influence the extent and duration of post-operative swelling. The complexity of the extraction plays a role; impacted teeth or those requiring bone removal often lead to more pronounced swelling. A patient’s age and overall health also affect the healing rate, as younger individuals often experience faster recovery. Adherence to post-operative care instructions also influences how quickly the swelling resolves.
Managing Swelling and Discomfort
To minimize swelling, apply ice packs to the outside of the face during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Ice constricts blood vessels, which helps reduce fluid accumulation and inflammation. Apply ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, followed by a 15 to 20-minute break, to prevent skin irritation.
After the initial 48 hours, warm compresses can be beneficial. Warmth helps promote blood flow to the area, aiding muscle relaxation and reducing jaw stiffness. Similar to ice, warm compresses should be applied intermittently for about 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.
Elevating the head, particularly while resting or sleeping, helps reduce blood flow to the surgical site and minimize swelling. Using extra pillows to keep the head above the heart can prevent blood from pooling. Gentle oral hygiene is also important; avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting for the first 24 hours to protect the delicate blood clot. After this initial period, gentle rinsing with warm salt water can help keep the area clean. Consuming soft foods and avoiding straws can also support healing and prevent complications.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While some swelling is a normal part of wisdom teeth removal recovery, certain signs indicate a need for professional medical attention. If swelling worsens significantly after the third day, instead of subsiding, it could suggest a complication like an infection. This warrants contacting the oral surgeon or dentist.
Seek professional advice for these concerning symptoms:
Difficulty swallowing or breathing, which requires immediate medical evaluation.
Severe pain that does not improve with prescribed medication or becomes more intense.
Fever (especially above 102 degrees Fahrenheit/38.8 degrees Celsius), chills, or pus discharge from the surgical site, indicating potential infection.
Persistent numbness around the lips, tongue, or chin, lasting beyond the immediate post-operative period.
Excessive bleeding that cannot be controlled by applying firm pressure with gauze.