Wisdom teeth extraction is a common procedure, but it can be a painful one. The pain typically starts to subside after a few days, but it may take longer for some individuals to fully recover. In this article, we will discuss how long it hurts after wisdom teeth extraction and what you can do to alleviate the pain.
The Procedure of Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Before we dive into the details of how long it hurts after wisdom teeth extraction, let’s first understand the procedure itself. Wisdom teeth extraction is a surgical procedure that involves removing one or more of the four molars located at the back of your mouth. These teeth are also known as third molars and often emerge during your late teens or early twenties.
The reason why wisdom teeth require extraction is that they can cause several dental problems. For instance, if there isn’t enough room in your mouth for them to grow, they may become impacted (stuck) in your gums or jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can cause severe pain, swelling, infection, and even damage to adjacent teeth.
During the extraction procedure, your dentist or oral surgeon will numb the area around the tooth with local anesthesia. If you’re feeling anxious or nervous, they may also offer you sedation to help you relax. Once you’re comfortable, they’ll surgically remove the tooth and stitch up the gum tissue if necessary. After the procedure, you’ll be given instructions on how to care for yourself at home.
How Long Does It Hurt After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
Now that you know what wisdom teeth extraction entails, let’s answer the question that brings us here – how long does it hurt after wisdom teeth extraction? The answer varies from person to person, but most people experience some level of discomfort for up to two weeks after the procedure.
In the first few days after surgery, you can expect to feel moderate to severe pain and swelling. You may also have difficulty opening your mouth, eating, and speaking. The pain tends to peak at around the third or fourth day before gradually subsiding.
By the end of the first week, you’ll likely feel much better than you did immediately after the procedure. However, you may still experience some pain and tenderness around the extraction site. At this point, you can start incorporating soft foods into your diet and begin gently brushing your teeth again.
During the second week, you should notice a significant improvement in your symptoms. The pain should be minimal, and any swelling should have subsided. You can resume your normal activities but avoid anything that could cause trauma to the extraction site, such as smoking or brushing too hard.
If, after two weeks, you’re still experiencing significant pain or other concerning symptoms, it’s best to contact your dentist or oral surgeon. They may need to examine the extraction site to ensure that there are no complications, such as an infection or dry socket.
Managing Pain After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
While it’s normal to experience some pain after wisdom teeth extraction, there are several things you can do to alleviate it. Here are some tips:
- Take pain medications as prescribed: Your dentist or oral surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage your discomfort. Be sure to take it as directed and don’t skip doses.
- Apply ice packs: Applying ice packs to your cheek for 20 minutes at a time can help reduce swelling and numb the area to ease pain.
- Eat soft foods: Stick to soft foods such as soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies during the first few days after surgery. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site.
- Avoid straws: Sucking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot that forms over the extraction site, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.
- Follow post-operative instructions: Your dentist or oral surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself after surgery. Following these instructions closely can help ensure a faster and smoother recovery.
Conclusion
In summary, how long it hurts after wisdom teeth extraction depends on several factors, including your individual pain tolerance, the complexity of the extraction, and how well you follow post-operative instructions. Most people experience discomfort for up to two weeks and gradually recover during this time. If you’re concerned about your symptoms or have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
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