When wisdom teeth are removed, there are several changes you may notice in your face. While some of these changes are temporary, others might take time to heal completely. Understanding what happens to your face after wisdom teeth removal can help you prepare for the recovery process and feel more at ease. In this article, we will explore what your face looks like after wisdom teeth removal, from swelling to bruising, and how to manage the healing process effectively.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Before diving into how your face changes after their removal, it’s important to understand what wisdom teeth are. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that appear at the back of your mouth, usually between the ages of 17 and 25. For many people, these teeth may not come through the gums properly. This can lead to discomfort, infection, or other dental problems, which is why extraction is often necessary.
The Process of Wisdom Teeth Removal
When you have your wisdom teeth removed, the procedure may be done under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity. The dentist or oral surgeon will make an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth and bone. Once the tooth is removed, the gum is stitched up. The procedure can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the number of teeth being extracted and their condition.
What Happens to Your Face Right After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Immediately after the procedure, your face might look different. This is due to the effects of the surgery and the body’s natural healing response.
1. Swelling
One of the most noticeable changes is swelling around the extraction site. The swelling can start immediately after the surgery, and it tends to peak within 48 to 72 hours. Your cheeks may puff up, making your face look rounder than usual. Swelling is a normal part of the healing process, as your body sends blood and fluids to the affected areas to promote healing.
2. Bruising
In addition to swelling, bruising is another common side effect. Bruising happens when small blood vessels under the skin break due to the pressure and movement during the surgery. You may notice dark spots or discoloration on your cheeks, which can range in color from purple to yellow as the bruise heals.
3. Numbness
After wisdom teeth removal, you may experience temporary numbness in your lips, tongue, or chin. This happens due to the anesthesia used during the procedure. It may take several hours to wear off, and in some cases, it can take a few days for feeling to fully return. If numbness lasts for an extended period, it’s important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.
4. Jaw Tightness
Your jaw might feel tight or sore after the procedure. This can be due to the prolonged position of your mouth during the surgery or the stress on your jaw muscles. Over time, the tightness will lessen as your muscles relax and the swelling goes down.
How to Manage Swelling and Discomfort After Wisdom Teeth Removal
While swelling and discomfort are normal, there are steps you can take to minimize these effects and speed up your recovery.
1. Apply Ice Packs
For the first 24 to 48 hours, apply ice packs to the outside of your face, near the extraction site. This will help reduce swelling and numb the area. Use the ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.
2. Keep Your Head Elevated
Elevating your head while resting can also help reduce swelling. Try to sleep with your head elevated using extra pillows. This allows fluids to drain away from your face and decreases the amount of swelling.
3. Take Pain Medications as Prescribed
Your dentist will likely prescribe pain medications to help manage the discomfort after the procedure. Take them as directed to stay comfortable and avoid unnecessary pain. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen can also help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
4. Eat Soft Foods
For the first few days, stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like soup, yogurt, and mashed potatoes. Avoid hard or crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction sites and cause further discomfort.
5. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid using straws for the first few days, as the suction can disturb the blood clots in the extraction site, leading to a painful condition called dry socket.
When Does the Swelling and Bruising Go Away?
Swelling and bruising are usually the worst during the first few days. After that, the swelling should start to decrease, and the bruising will gradually fade. Most people notice significant improvement within one week, though mild swelling may persist for up to two weeks.
The time it takes for the swelling to go away can vary based on factors like how many teeth were removed, the complexity of the procedure, and your body’s natural healing abilities.
Other Changes You Might Notice
Besides swelling and bruising, you might notice other changes to your face or mouth during the recovery process.
1. Dry Mouth
It’s common to experience dry mouth after wisdom teeth removal, especially if you’re taking pain medications. Dry mouth can make it harder to speak or swallow comfortably. Be sure to drink water frequently to keep your mouth moist.
2. Difficulty Opening Your Mouth
Some people find it difficult to fully open their mouth right after the procedure due to swelling and soreness in the jaw area. This condition, known as “trismus,” typically resolves as the swelling goes down and the muscles relax.
3. Gum Tenderness
Your gums may feel sore or tender after the extraction, especially around the area where the teeth were removed. The gum tissue needs time to heal, so be gentle when brushing your teeth around the surgical site.
How Long Does It Take to Fully Heal After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Healing after wisdom teeth removal can take several weeks to a few months. However, the most significant changes to your face, like swelling and bruising, will occur during the first few days. You may continue to feel some discomfort and sensitivity for a few weeks as your gums and jaw fully heal.
The stitches placed during the procedure will either dissolve on their own or be removed by your dentist after about a week. Full healing of the soft tissues can take around two to four weeks, while the bone may take a few months to fully heal.
When to Contact Your Dentist or Oral Surgeon
While some discomfort and changes in your face are expected after wisdom teeth removal, there are situations in which you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. These include:
Persistent or severe pain not relieved by prescribed medications
Excessive bleeding that doesn’t stop
Signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or increased swelling after the first few days
Numbness or tingling that persists longer than expected
Trouble breathing or swallowing
Conclusion
Understanding what happens to your face after wisdom teeth removal can help you manage your recovery more easily. Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort are common, but these effects are temporary and can be minimized with proper care. By following your dentist’s post-operative instructions, you can ensure a smoother recovery process and be on your way to feeling like yourself again. Remember, every person’s recovery is different, so be patient with the process and reach out to your dental professional if you have any concerns along the way.
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