Lump On Side Of Mouth After Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth are the third molars located at the back of your mouth. These teeth usually emerge in your late teens or early twenties. Sometimes, they can cause problems like pain, infection, and swelling. One common issue that people experience after wisdom teeth extraction is a lump on the side of their mouth. In this article, we will discuss the possible causes of this lump and how to manage it.
What Causes a Lump on the Side of Your Mouth After Wisdom Teeth Extraction?
There are several reasons why you may develop a lump on the side of your mouth after wisdom teeth extraction. Here are some of the possible causes:
1. Swelling
After wisdom teeth extraction, it is common to experience swelling in the affected area. This swelling can cause a lump to form on the side of your mouth. The swelling usually subsides within a few days to a week. You can manage the swelling by applying an ice pack to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time.
2. Infection
In some cases, a lump on the side of your mouth after wisdom teeth extraction may be due to an infection. If you notice that the lump is red, warm to the touch, and accompanied by fever and pain, you may have an infection. In this case, you should see your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. They may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
3. Dry Socket
Dry socket is a condition that occurs when the blood clot that forms after wisdom teeth extraction gets dislodged or dissolves too soon. This condition can cause severe pain and a foul odor in your mouth. It can also cause a lump to form on the side of your mouth. If you suspect that you have dry socket, see your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. They can pack the affected area with medicated gauze to promote healing.
4. Cyst
In rare cases, a lump on the side of your mouth after wisdom teeth extraction may be due to a cyst. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac that can develop in your jawbone. If you have a cyst, you may notice that the lump is hard and does not go away on its own. You should see your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible. They may need to remove the cyst surgically.
How to Manage a Lump on the Side of Your Mouth After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
If you have a lump on the side of your mouth after wisdom teeth extraction, here are some tips on how to manage it:
1. Apply Ice
As mentioned earlier, applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a towel or cloth to prevent damage to your skin.
2. Take Pain Relievers
If you are experiencing pain, you may take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage and consult your dentist or oral surgeon if the pain persists.
3. Rinse with Saltwater
Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Mix a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse your mouth gently several times a day.
4. Avoid Smoking and Drinking Through a Straw
Smoking and drinking through a straw can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing. Avoid these activities until you have fully recovered.
Conclusion
A lump on the side of your mouth after wisdom teeth extraction can be uncomfortable and concerning. However, in most cases, it is a normal part of the healing process. If you experience any unusual symptoms like fever, severe pain, or discharge from the affected area, be sure to contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately. With proper care and management, you can recover from wisdom teeth extraction without any complications.