Finding a bump where a wisdom tooth was removed is a common concern. This occurrence is often part of the natural healing process following extraction. While generally harmless, understanding its potential causes helps distinguish normal healing from complications that might require professional attention.
Common Reasons for a Bump After Wisdom Tooth Removal
A common reason for a bump after wisdom tooth removal is a bone spur, also known as a sequestrum or bone fragment. These are small pieces of jawbone that may become exposed or work their way out of the gum tissue as the extraction site heals. Bone spurs feel hard or sharp and can cause discomfort as they rub against soft tissues. While they often resolve on their own, being naturally expelled by the body over several weeks to a month, larger or more embedded fragments may require removal by a dentist.
Another normal part of healing is the formation of granulation tissue. This soft, red, or sometimes whitish tissue fills the empty socket as the body repairs the damaged area. Granulation tissue consists of newly formed connective tissue, blood vessels, and white blood cells, which protect the wound, provide a framework for new tissue growth, and help prevent infection. Its bumpy or granular texture is normal, and it gradually gets replaced by healthy gum tissue over several weeks.
Residual swelling and inflammation of the gum tissue around the extraction site can also manifest as a bump. Swelling is a natural bodily response to trauma, as increased blood flow and fluid are directed to the area to promote healing. This swelling usually peaks around 2 to 3 days after the procedure and then gradually subsides, with most visible swelling disappearing within a week, though mild puffiness might persist longer, especially after wisdom tooth removal.
As the area recovers, fibrous scar tissue may form, which can feel like a firm bump. Scar tissue is a natural part of the body’s repair process following any surgical procedure, including wisdom tooth extraction. The amount of scar tissue can vary depending on the extraction’s complexity and an individual’s unique healing response. This scar tissue typically remodels and softens over time, becoming less noticeable.
When to Seek Dental Attention
While many bumps are part of normal healing, certain signs and symptoms warrant immediate dental attention. Increasing pain that worsens significantly, or pain not adequately managed by prescribed pain relievers, suggests a potential complication. Pain should generally decrease over time, and a sudden increase after a few days can indicate an issue.
Signs of infection require prompt evaluation. These include:
Swelling that continues to increase after the initial peak (typically 2-3 days post-surgery).
The presence of pus or unusual discharge from the extraction site.
A persistent foul taste or odor in the mouth.
A fever (especially above 101°F or 38.3°C).
These symptoms indicate bacterial activity that needs professional intervention.
Persistent numbness beyond the expected healing period, particularly if it affects the lower lip, chin, or tongue for more than a few days or weeks, could suggest nerve involvement. While some temporary numbness from anesthesia is normal, lasting or asymmetrical numbness should be assessed by a dentist to rule out nerve damage.
Excessive bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, or bleeding that is heavy, bright red, and continues for more than 24-48 hours, is a cause for concern. It is normal for some oozing or redness in saliva for the first day or two, but persistent heavy bleeding may indicate that the blood clot has become dislodged or is not forming properly.
Difficulty opening the mouth, known as trismus, is common for a few days after extraction due to muscle stiffness and inflammation. However, if this difficulty worsens or persists beyond about a week, it could signal a problem, such as significant inflammation or muscle spasms requiring professional assessment. Any bump accompanied by a combination of these concerning symptoms should prompt a visit to the dentist.
Managing Discomfort and Promoting Healing
Gentle oral hygiene is important for managing minor discomfort and supporting the healing process after wisdom tooth removal. Starting the day after surgery, gentle rinsing with warm salt water (about half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) 3-4 times a day, especially after meals, helps keep the site clean and reduce bacteria. Brushing teeth gently, avoiding the extraction site for the first 24 hours, helps prevent irritation and infection while maintaining overall oral cleanliness.
Pain management for minor discomfort often involves over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, taken as directed. Applying an ice pack to the outside of the cheek near the extraction site for the first 24-48 hours can help reduce swelling and numb the area, with applications typically lasting 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. After 24-48 hours, switching to moist heat may help with jaw stiffness.
A soft food diet is recommended for the first few days to a week to avoid irritating the healing site and dislodging the protective blood clot. Foods like soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies are good choices, while hot, spicy, crunchy, chewy, or seedy foods should be avoided. Drinking plenty of fluids is important, but using a straw should be avoided for at least the first few days to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
Patience is important, as healing takes time, and minor bumps may resolve on their own as the tissue matures. Following all specific post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon is important for a smooth recovery. This advice is for minor, non-concerning bumps and general healing; any worsening or persistent symptoms should always be evaluated by a dental professional.