Am I Supposed To Have A Hole After Wisdom Teeth
After getting your wisdom teeth removed, you may notice a hole or a gap where your tooth used to be. This can be concerning and may leave you wondering if this is normal. In this article, we will discuss why you may have a hole after wisdom teeth removal and what you can do to promote healing.
Why Do I Have A Hole After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
When you get your wisdom teeth removed, the dentist or oral surgeon will extract the tooth from its socket in the jawbone. This process requires making an incision in the gum tissue to access the tooth. After the tooth is removed, the gum tissue is stitched back together.
The hole or gap that you may be seeing after the procedure is the socket where the tooth used to be. As the area heals, new tissue will fill in the hole and eventually close it up.
How Long Will The Hole Last?
The length of time that the hole will last varies from person to person. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks for the hole to completely close up. This process is called healing and is an important part of the recovery process after wisdom teeth removal.
What Can I Do To Promote Healing?
There are a few things you can do to promote faster healing and reduce the risk of complications after wisdom teeth removal. These include:
- Following your dentist's instructions for post-operative care, including taking any prescribed pain medication and antibiotics
- Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and hot liquids for the first few days after surgery
- Eating soft and cool foods for the first few days after surgery
- Gently rinsing your mouth with salt water to promote healing
- Avoiding brushing the extraction site until your dentist gives you the go-ahead
When Should I Be Concerned?
While it is normal to have a hole after wisdom teeth removal, there are some signs that may indicate a problem. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your dentist or oral surgeon right away:
- Fever
- Excessive bleeding
- Swelling that gets worse instead of better
- Pus or discharge from the extraction site
- Severe pain that does not improve with pain medication
The Bottom Line
Having a hole after wisdom teeth removal is normal and part of the healing process. It can take a few days to several weeks for the hole to completely close up. By following your dentist's instructions for post-operative care and keeping an eye out for signs of complications, you can promote faster healing and reduce the risk of complications.