Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. Swelling is an expected part of recovery after this oral surgery, as the body’s natural response to surgical trauma facilitates healing.
Why Swelling Occurs
Swelling after wisdom teeth extraction is a physiological response to tissue trauma. When a tooth is removed, the surrounding tissues experience an incision, triggering an inflammatory reaction. The body sends increased blood flow and fluid to the surgical site to protect and nourish the healing tissues.
This influx of fluids brings white blood cells and other components of the immune system to the area. These cells fight potential infection and promote tissue repair. The puffiness around the mouth and cheeks indicates the body is actively healing the extraction site.
The Swelling Timeline: Peak and Resolution
Swelling typically begins on the day of surgery or within the first 24 hours. This initial swelling is a natural and expected part of the body’s immediate healing efforts. The amount of swelling can vary based on the complexity of the extraction and individual healing factors.
Swelling usually peaks on day 2 or 3 after the procedure. For some individuals, this peak might extend to day 3 or 4. This heightened swelling is a normal sign that the body’s healing response is in full effect.
After peaking, the swelling generally begins to subside gradually from day 3 or 4 onwards. Most significant swelling resolves by the end of the first week, around 7 to 10 days after the surgery. However, some minor residual puffiness might persist for up to two weeks, particularly with more complex extractions.
Managing Swelling at Home
Applying ice packs to the face over the surgical areas helps manage swelling by reducing inflammation and numbing discomfort. It is recommended to apply ice packs for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery.
Keeping the head elevated, especially while resting or sleeping, can help minimize swelling. Using extra pillows to prop up the head prevents blood from pooling in the surgical area. Consuming a soft diet also helps avoid chewing that might irritate the extraction sites.
Staying well-hydrated supports the body’s healing processes. Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed anti-inflammatory medications can manage swelling and discomfort. After the initial 48 hours, applying gentle moist heat to the face can help reduce lingering swelling and stiffness.
When to Contact Your Dentist
It is important to monitor swelling and other symptoms after wisdom teeth removal. While swelling is expected, certain signs indicate a need to contact your oral surgeon or dentist. Seek professional advice if swelling continues to worsen after day 3 or 4, rather than improving.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing due to increasing swelling requires immediate attention. The presence of a fever, severe pain that is not managed by medication, or signs of infection such as pus, a foul odor, or spreading redness and warmth are also reasons to contact your dental professional. Any numbness that persists beyond the expected duration should also be reported.