Soreness after wisdom teeth removal is a common part of recovery, ranging from mild discomfort to noticeable pain. Understanding its causes helps guide effective self-care during healing.
Normal Post-Extraction Soreness
Soreness after wisdom teeth removal stems from trauma to surrounding tissues during surgery. Surgeons make gum incisions and may remove bone to extract the tooth, leading to inflammation and swelling. This inflammatory response is a normal part of healing. The empty socket undergoes bone remodeling, contributing to discomfort. Nerves may also experience temporary irritation or bruising, causing pain or altered sensations. Keeping the mouth open for an extended period can also lead to jaw muscle soreness.
Complications Causing Increased Soreness
While some soreness is expected, certain complications can lead to more severe or prolonged pain.
Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) occurs when the protective blood clot dislodges prematurely, exposing underlying bone and nerves. It typically causes intense, throbbing pain 1-3 days post-extraction, often radiating to the ear, eye, temple, or neck, and may include a bad taste or odor.
Infection is another concern, characterized by worsening pain, increased swelling, redness, pus, or a foul taste/smell. Fever, difficulty opening the mouth, or swelling that worsens after 2-3 days can also signal an infection.
Though rare, nerve damage can occur if nerves are irritated or bruised during surgery, leading to persistent numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the lip, chin, or tongue.
Small fragments of tooth or bone chips left in the socket can irritate tissue, causing continued soreness and delaying healing.
Managing Soreness and Promoting Healing
Effective pain management and healing support are important for a smoother recovery.
Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) help manage discomfort; stronger medication may be prescribed.
Apply cold compresses to the cheek for 15-20 minutes during the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and numb pain. After 24 hours, warm compresses can be beneficial.
A soft food diet for the first few days avoids irritating the surgical site and dislodging the blood clot.
Gentle oral hygiene, including salt water rinses starting 24 hours post-surgery, keeps the area clean and reduces bacteria.
Adequate rest minimizes exertion, preventing bleeding and swelling, and promoting healing.
Avoid irritants like smoking and straws, as they can dislodge the blood clot and increase dry socket risk.
When to Contact Your Dentist
While some post-operative soreness is normal, contact your dentist promptly if you experience:
Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication or worsens days after the procedure, possibly signaling dry socket or infection.
Infection signs: fever, pus or unusual discharge, excessive or worsening swelling, or a foul taste/smell that doesn’t subside with rinsing.
Persistent numbness in the lip, chin, or tongue lasting beyond local anesthetic effects, indicating nerve irritation or damage.
Excessive bleeding not stopping with sustained pressure, or difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Contacting your dental professional ensures timely assessment and appropriate treatment for any complications.