Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. Many people have to undergo this treatment during their late teens or early twenties. After the surgery, it’s completely normal to experience some discomfort, but how long this lasts and how severe the pain is can vary from person to person. Understanding the healing process, what to expect, and how to manage the soreness can make the recovery easier and less stressful.
In this article, we will explore why you might feel sore after wisdom teeth removal, how long the soreness might last, and what steps you can take to manage it.
Why Does Soreness Happen After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Understanding the reasons behind the soreness can help you manage the discomfort. After your wisdom teeth are removed, your body needs time to heal. The procedure involves making incisions in the gums to access and remove the teeth, which can cause tissue irritation and inflammation. Additionally, the area where the tooth was removed may be left with an open socket, which also needs time to heal.
Surgical Trauma to Tissues
When the wisdom teeth are extracted, the surrounding gum tissues are often disturbed. Even with a skilled surgeon, there will be some trauma to the gums, jawbone, and other surrounding tissues. This disruption leads to swelling, inflammation, and tenderness, which are all common aftereffects of surgery.
Blood Clots and Healing Process
After the extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket where the tooth was. This clot helps the healing process by promoting tissue repair and preventing infection. However, during the first few days, this clot can lead to some discomfort as the surrounding tissues adjust and heal. If the clot dislodges too early, it can lead to a painful condition called dry socket, which further intensifies discomfort.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling is a natural part of the body’s healing response. As blood rushes to the area of the surgery, it can cause the surrounding tissues to swell. The swelling may peak in the first 48 hours after surgery and then gradually decrease. Swelling, in turn, can contribute to the soreness, making it feel more uncomfortable than usual.
Infection Risks
While it is uncommon, infection after wisdom teeth removal can cause significant pain and discomfort. If bacteria enter the surgical site, it can cause inflammation, pus buildup, and increased pain. Proper care following surgery, including good oral hygiene and following the post-operative instructions given by your dentist or oral surgeon, is essential in preventing infection.
How Long Should Soreness Last After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
The duration of soreness can vary from person to person. On average, mild soreness or tenderness lasts for about 3 to 5 days after surgery. However, there are factors that may influence how long you experience discomfort, such as the complexity of the surgery, the number of teeth removed, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions.
First Few Days Post-Surgery
In the first 24 to 72 hours, you will likely experience the most soreness. During this time, you may feel discomfort in the gums, jaw, and even in the muscles that control your mouth. Swelling also peaks around this time, and you may notice bruising or redness in the area. This level of soreness is generally manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and ice packs. It’s completely normal for the discomfort to be at its worst during this initial period.
After 3 to 5 Days
By day three or five, most of the severe pain should begin to subside. Swelling will decrease, and you should notice a significant reduction in soreness. You may still have some mild discomfort when chewing or touching the area, but this is usually not as intense as the initial pain.
One Week and Beyond
After the first week, the pain should become significantly less noticeable, and most people feel more comfortable resuming their daily activities. However, it’s important to note that healing continues for several weeks. During this time, you may still experience some occasional soreness, especially when brushing your teeth near the surgical site.
Complete Healing Time
While the initial soreness subsides within a week, complete healing can take several weeks to months. The soft tissue around the extraction site usually heals within 3 to 4 weeks, but the bone can take several months to fully heal. During this time, you should continue to take care of your mouth and follow the instructions from your dentist or oral surgeon.
How to Manage Soreness After Wisdom Teeth Removal
The good news is that there are several ways to manage the soreness and make your recovery as comfortable as possible.
Pain Relief Medication
Your oral surgeon will likely recommend pain relief medications to help you manage the discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often effective for mild to moderate soreness. If your pain is more severe, your doctor might prescribe stronger medications. Be sure to follow the recommended dosages to avoid any complications.
Cold Compresses
Cold compresses can help reduce swelling and numb the area, providing temporary relief from the pain. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the side of your face for 15 to 20 minutes at a time during the first 48 hours after surgery can significantly reduce swelling. This can also alleviate some of the soreness, especially in the first few days after your surgery.
Warm Salt Water Rinses
After the first 24 hours, you can use warm saltwater rinses to help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, and gently swish the solution around your mouth, avoiding the extraction sites. Saltwater rinses help to keep the area clean and can soothe any lingering soreness.
Soft Diet
In the days immediately following your surgery, it’s important to stick to a soft food diet. Foods such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup, and smoothies are easy to eat without putting stress on your sore mouth. Avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the extraction site or get stuck in the healing socket.
Elevating Your Head While Sleeping
Keeping your head elevated during sleep can help reduce swelling and minimize pain. Use extra pillows to prop your head up at a 30-degree angle. This prevents blood from pooling in the surgical area, which can contribute to more swelling and soreness.
Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol
Both smoking and drinking alcohol can delay the healing process and increase the risk of complications, such as infection. Smoking can also interfere with the formation of a blood clot in the extraction site, leading to conditions like dry socket, which causes severe pain. It is highly recommended to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 48 to 72 hours after surgery.
When Should You Be Concerned About Soreness?
While some soreness is normal, there are certain signs that may indicate a complication. If you experience any of the following, it’s important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately:
- Increased Pain: If your pain significantly worsens after the first few days or becomes unmanageable despite medication, this may be a sign of infection or a complication.
- Fever: A fever can indicate an infection. If you develop a fever after your surgery, contact your healthcare provider right away.
- Excessive Swelling: Some swelling is normal, but if the swelling continues to increase significantly after the first 3 to 5 days, it may indicate a problem.
- Pus or Discharge: If you notice pus or a bad taste coming from the extraction site, this is a sign of infection and requires medical attention.
Conclusion
Soreness after wisdom teeth removal is a common part of the healing process. It’s normal to experience pain, swelling, and discomfort in the first few days following the procedure. However, with proper care, pain management, and by following the post-operative instructions from your dentist, you can effectively manage the discomfort and heal faster.
The soreness should begin to decrease after the first few days, with most people experiencing a significant reduction in pain within one week. While complete healing can take several months, your recovery will be easier if you take proper steps to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. Always reach out to your dentist or oral surgeon if you have concerns about your recovery process.
Related topics:
How Long Should I Take Antibiotics After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Can Wisdom Teeth Cause Jaw Pain and Tension?
Is It Normal to Feel Pressure After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
