Swelling is a common outcome following wisdom tooth extraction. This reaction is the body’s natural response to surgical trauma, sending fluids and immune cells to the extraction site to initiate healing. The extent and duration of swelling can vary, but it typically peaks within 48 to 72 hours after surgery and gradually subsides by the fourth day. Most people experience significant improvement within a week, with full recovery sometimes taking up to two weeks.
Immediate Home Remedies
Applying a cold compress immediately after the procedure can help reduce initial swelling. This works by constricting blood vessels, which limits blood flow to the affected area and minimizes inflammation. Apply an ice pack, wrapped in a cloth, to the outside of your cheek for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, followed by a 15 to 20-minute break. Repeat this intermittent application for the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery. After the initial 48 hours, switching to a warm compress can promote healing by increasing blood circulation and reducing jaw stiffness.
Elevating your head can also reduce swelling. Keeping your head above your heart helps minimize blood flow to the surgical site, preventing fluid accumulation. Using two or three pillows to create a gentle incline is often recommended. This position helps prevent increased pressure that can lead to throbbing and discomfort in the extraction area.
Maintaining gentle oral hygiene is important. After the first 24 hours, carefully rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water solution can help keep the extraction sites clean and reduce infection risk. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and gently swish it, avoiding vigorous rinsing or spitting that could dislodge the blood clot. When brushing your teeth, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and carefully clean around the surgical site, avoiding direct contact for the first few days.
Medication and Dietary Approaches
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can effectively manage pain and reduce swelling. These medications work by targeting the body’s inflammatory response. Consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for specific dosage recommendations and to ensure they are appropriate for your health.
Dietary adjustments are also important for managing swelling and promoting healing. For the first 24 to 48 hours, a diet of only liquid or pureed foods is often recommended. Gradually, introduce soft foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods, as these can irritate the surgical site and potentially dislodge the protective blood clot.
Avoiding straws is advised after wisdom tooth extraction. The suction created by drinking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot that forms in the empty tooth socket. This can lead to a painful condition known as dry socket, which delays healing and increases discomfort. Staying hydrated by sipping water is encouraged, but without using a straw.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some swelling is a normal part of the healing process, certain signs indicate that professional medical attention may be necessary. If the swelling worsens after three days, or if it persists without improvement for more than a week, contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
Other concerning symptoms include a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.8 degrees Celsius), severe pain that is not managed by prescribed or over-the-counter medications, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. The presence of pus or a foul taste in your mouth also suggests a possible infection that requires immediate evaluation. Prompt communication with your healthcare provider ensures any complications are addressed quickly.