Just Got My Wisdom Teeth Pulled And It Hurts
Introduction
Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars that grow at the back of your mouth. Dentists usually recommend removal of wisdom teeth to prevent potential problems. You might experience pain and discomfort after getting your wisdom teeth pulled out. This article will give you some tips on how to manage the pain and discomfort after getting your wisdom teeth pulled out.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth served a purpose in our evolutionary past when humans had larger jaws and needed the extra molars to chew tough food. However, over the years, human jaws have become smaller, and there is no longer enough space for wisdom teeth to grow properly.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need To Be Removed?
Wisdom teeth can cause various problems if not removed, such as:
- Impacted wisdom teeth: When wisdom teeth do not have enough space to grow, they become impacted, which can cause pain, swelling, and infection.
- Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment, causing overcrowding and bite problems.
- Tooth decay: Wisdom teeth are difficult to clean, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
- Cysts and tumors: Wisdom teeth can cause cysts and tumors to form, which can damage the jawbone and require surgery to remove.
What To Expect After Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled Out?
After getting your wisdom teeth pulled out, you may experience:
- Pain, swelling, and bruising in the face and jaw
- Bleeding from the extraction site
- Numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin
- Difficulty opening your mouth
- Difficulty eating and drinking
- Bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth
How To Manage Pain And Discomfort After Getting Your Wisdom Teeth Pulled Out?
Here are some tips on how to manage pain and discomfort after getting your wisdom teeth pulled out:
- Take pain medications as prescribed by your dentist
- Apply an ice pack to your face for 10-20 minutes at a time to reduce swelling
- Eat soft, cold foods like ice cream, yogurt, and smoothies
- Avoid hot, spicy, and crunchy foods that can irritate the extraction site
- Don't use straws or smoke, as the sucking motion can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to keep the extraction site clean and promote healing
- Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities for a few days
When To Call Your Dentist?
You should contact your dentist if you experience:
- Fever
- Severe pain that is not relieved by medication
- Excessive bleeding or swelling
- Numbness that lasts more than a few hours
- Foul-smelling discharge from the extraction site
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Conclusion
Getting your wisdom teeth pulled out can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but it is necessary to prevent potential dental problems. By following these tips, you can manage the pain and discomfort after getting your wisdom teeth pulled out and promote healing. If you experience any complications or have concerns, don't hesitate to contact your dentist.
