Pain when swallowing is common after wisdom teeth extraction. The surgical procedure affects surrounding tissues, contributing to throat discomfort.
Understanding the Sources of Pain
Pain after wisdom teeth removal stems from the body’s response to surgery.
Tissues around the extraction site, including the gums, jaw, and throat, become inflamed and swollen, making swallowing uncomfortable. This swelling can create a sensation of tightness or a lump, interfering with swallowing.
Muscle soreness and spasm, known as trismus, also contribute to swallowing difficulty. Jaw muscles may become sore or spasm from being held open during the procedure. This strain affects muscles used for chewing and swallowing, limiting mouth opening and causing pain.
Nerve irritation can cause referred pain, felt in the throat or ear when swallowing. Nerves near the wisdom teeth can be affected during extraction, causing discomfort that radiates beyond the surgical site. This occurs because nerves sending pain signals from the extraction site also innervate other regions, leading to pain perception elsewhere.
If general anesthesia was used, the throat might be sore from intubation. A breathing tube inserted during the procedure can irritate delicate tissues of the throat, vocal cords, and tongue. This irritation can range from mild scratchiness to significant discomfort.
Potential Complications and When to Seek Help
Some discomfort is expected, but certain signs indicate a complication requiring professional attention.
Dry socket occurs when the blood clot in the extraction site dislodges or dissolves prematurely. This exposes underlying bone and nerves, causing severe, throbbing pain that can radiate to the ear and jaw, making swallowing difficult. A foul odor or taste often accompanies dry socket.
Bacterial infection at the extraction site can lead to increased pain, worsening swelling, fever, and pus discharge. An infection can also cause worsening swallowing pain and may spread if left untreated.
Excessive or persistent bleeding is a concern. While some bleeding is normal, heavy bleeding can accumulate in the back of the throat. This accumulation can make swallowing difficult and may cause nausea or an unpleasant taste.
Nerve damage is a rare but possible complication. It can result in temporary or permanent numbness or tingling in the tongue, lip, or chin. While not directly causing swallowing pain, it can affect the sensation of swallowing, making it feel unusual or impaired.
If you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a fever, contact a dentist or oral surgeon immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious issue requiring prompt medical evaluation.
Strategies for Relief and Recovery
Managing pain and recovery after wisdom teeth removal involves several strategies.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, are recommended to alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation. Use stronger pain medication as directed if prescribed.
Apply cold compresses or ice packs to the jaw for the first 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling. This lessens pressure and discomfort that contribute to swallowing pain. After this initial period, warm compresses may improve blood flow and muscle relaxation.
Modify your diet to include soft, cool foods that require minimal chewing and swallowing. Examples include yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and lukewarm soups. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or acidic foods to prevent further irritation to healing tissues.
Maintain good oral hygiene gently. After 24 hours, rinse with warm salt water several times daily to keep the extraction site clean and reduce inflammation. Avoid vigorous swishing or spitting, as this can dislodge the protective blood clot.
Adequate rest and hydration are important for healing. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to keep the throat moist and support recovery. Avoid irritants like smoking and straws, as these can disrupt the blood clot and prolong healing.