Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure that many individuals undergo. These extra molars (which often don’t have enough space to properly emerge) can cause a range of issues, including pain, infection, and crowding of adjacent teeth. Therefore, wisdom teeth extraction may be necessary, resulting in some minor wisdom teeth removal pain.
At Texas Oral Surgery Specialists in Colleyville, TX, Dr. Chris L. Tye specializes in oral surgery, including wisdom teeth removal. If you’d like to consult Dr. Tye about oral surgery, call (817) 552-3223 now!
While the procedure is routine, it’s essential to understand what level of pain is normal and when to be concerned during the recovery process. Here, we tell you how much wisdom teeth removal pain is too much.
The Initial Days: What to Expect
It’s entirely normal to experience some level of wisdom teeth removal pain and discomfort after the procedure. This pain usually peaks within the first 24 to 72 hours after the procedure and gradually subsides. Here’s what you can typically expect during the initial days:
Moderate Pain
You’ll likely experience moderate pain around the extraction sites. This discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
Swelling
Swelling around the jawline is common. Applying ice packs intermittently to the cheeks can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
Bruising
Some individuals may notice bruising on their cheeks or neck. This is a normal part of the healing process and will fade over time.
Difficulty Opening Mouth
Swelling and muscle stiffness can alter your jaw’s range of motion. However, it should improve gradually.
Dissolvable Stitches
If you have stitches, they are often dissolvable and will not require removal. They will disappear on their own as your gums heal.
However, it is important to avoid drinking through straws after the procedure for at least two weeks. The suction can loosen stitches, ultimately leading to prolonged wisdom teeth removal pain.
Soft Diet
You’ll need to stick to a soft diet for a little while to avoid irritating the extraction sites. Typically, patients enjoy foods like stews, soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and meal-replacement drinks for roughly five to 10 days after extraction.
When should you be concerned?
Although wisdom teeth removal pain is normal, there are situations where you should be concerned and seek immediate medical attention:
Excessive Bleeding
Some bleeding is normal, but if you experience profuse or continuous bleeding beyond the initial 24 hours, contact your oral surgeon or dentist immediately.
Severe Pain
If the pain worsens significantly after the initial days or becomes unbearable, it could be a sign of infection or another complication.
Fever
A persistent fever can be an indication of infection. Elevated body temperature, along with swelling and severe pain, should be addressed promptly.
Prolonged Numbness
While some numbness in the lower lip and tongue is common, if this numbness persists beyond a few days, it could indicate nerve damage. Seek professional advice as soon as possible.
Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing
In rare cases, severe swelling can lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing. This is a medical emergency, and you should go to the nearest emergency room.
Pus or Discharge
The presence of pus or foul-smelling discharge around the extraction sites may indicate an infection that needs immediate attention.
Wisdom Teeth Removal Near Colleyville, TX
Wisdom teeth removal pain is a natural part of the recovery process. However, it’s crucial to be aware of when the pain crosses the line from normal to concerning. If you have a question about wisdom teeth removal or extraction pain, contact Dr. Tye at Texas Oral Surgery Specialists today. Reach us online here, or call our team at (817) 552-3223.
