Does Your Face Get Swollen After Wisdom Teeth
Introduction
Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure which usually takes place during the late teenage years or early adulthood. The reason for wisdom teeth removal is that these teeth can cause problems such as impaction, infection and crowding. However, one of the common side effects of wisdom teeth removal is swelling of the face. In this article, we will discuss why your face gets swollen after wisdom teeth removal, how long it lasts and what you can do to reduce the swelling.
Why Does Your Face Get Swollen?
When you have your wisdom teeth removed, it is common to experience swelling and bruising of the face. This is because the procedure involves cutting through the gum tissue and removing the teeth from the jawbone. This process causes trauma to the surrounding tissue which leads to swelling.
How Long Does The Swelling Last?
The swelling usually peaks within the first two to three days after the procedure and gradually subsides over the next week. However, the duration of the swelling varies from person to person depending on factors such as the number of teeth removed, the complexity of the procedure and individual healing rates.
What Can You Do To Reduce The Swelling?
There are several steps you can take to reduce the swelling after wisdom teeth removal:
- Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, with a 20 minute break in between. Do this for the first 48 hours after the procedure.
- Keep your head elevated while lying down to reduce blood flow to the affected area.
- Eat soft foods and avoid hard and crunchy foods which can irritate the surgical site.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol as these can delay the healing process.
- Take pain medication as prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
When To Contact Your Dentist
If the swelling does not start to subside after a week or if you experience other symptoms such as fever, numbness or difficulty swallowing, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon. These symptoms may indicate an infection or other complications which require immediate attention.
Conclusion
Swelling of the face after wisdom teeth removal is a common side effect of the procedure. The swelling usually peaks within the first two to three days and gradually subsides over the next week. However, there are several steps you can take to reduce the swelling and promote healing. If you experience any other symptoms or the swelling does not start to subside after a week, it is important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon.