Gum Sore Where Wisdom Teeth Used To Be
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that usually appear in the late teenage years or early adulthood. Due to their late appearance, they often cause problems such as overcrowding, impaction, and infection. When the wisdom teeth are extracted, the gum tissue around the extraction site is left to heal. Sometimes, the gum tissue may become sore after the extraction, which can be uncomfortable for the patient.
What Causes Gum Soreness After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
After the extraction of wisdom teeth, the gum tissue around the extraction site is left to heal. The healing process involves the formation of a blood clot, which protects the underlying bone and tissues. However, sometimes, the blood clot may become dislodged, exposing the bone and nerves underneath. This can cause pain, swelling, and soreness in the gum tissue.
How to Manage Gum Soreness After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
If you experience gum soreness after wisdom teeth extraction, there are several ways to manage the discomfort:
- Use ice packs on the affected area to reduce swelling
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, as they can delay the healing process
- Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods that can irritate the extraction site
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, as recommended by your dentist or oral surgeon
When to Contact Your Dentist
If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or swelling that does not improve with home remedies, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. These symptoms may indicate a complication such as dry socket, infection, or nerve damage.
Preventing Gum Soreness After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
The best way to prevent gum soreness after wisdom teeth extraction is to follow your dentist's post-operative instructions carefully. These may include:
- Avoiding hard or crunchy foods for the first few days after surgery
- Rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater several times a day
- Using ice packs on the affected area to reduce swelling
- Avoiding smoking or using tobacco products
- Taking pain medication as recommended by your dentist or oral surgeon
Conclusion
Gum soreness after wisdom teeth extraction is a common problem that can be managed with home remedies and over-the-counter pain medication. However, if you experience severe pain, bleeding, or swelling, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. By following your dentist's post-operative instructions carefully, you can prevent gum soreness and other complications after wisdom teeth extraction.