Wisdom Teeth Removal Pain Worse After 3 Days
Getting your wisdom teeth removed is a common dental procedure that many people go through. Although it is considered a minor procedure, it can be painful and uncomfortable, especially in the days following the surgery. While most people experience pain and swelling for the first few days, some may find that their pain worsens after 3 days. In this article, we will explore the reasons why wisdom teeth removal pain may get worse after 3 days and what you can do to alleviate it.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are the third molars that grow at the back of your mouth. They usually appear between the ages of 17 and 25. Some people can have all four wisdom teeth, while others may have only one or two. They can cause problems if they do not have enough space to grow, are misaligned, or are impacted.
Why Is Wisdom Teeth Removal Necessary?
Wisdom teeth removal is necessary in many cases to prevent oral health problems, such as infections, gum disease, and tooth decay. When wisdom teeth are impacted or misaligned, they can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort. In some cases, they can also damage adjacent teeth or cause cysts or tumors.
Why Does Pain Get Worse After 3 Days?
After wisdom teeth removal, it is normal to experience pain, swelling, and discomfort for the first few days. This is because the surgery involves cutting into the gum tissue and removing the tooth. Your body responds to this trauma by sending blood to the area to promote healing, which can cause swelling and pain.
However, if your pain worsens after 3 days, it may be a sign of a complication. One of the most common complications after wisdom teeth removal is dry socket. This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket where the tooth was removed becomes dislodged or dissolves before the wound has healed. This can expose the bone and nerves and cause severe pain.
How Can You Alleviate Pain After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
If you are experiencing pain after wisdom teeth removal, there are several things you can do to alleviate it:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon.
- Apply an ice pack to your cheeks for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce swelling.
- Rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
- Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, or using a straw, as these activities can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing.
- Eat soft foods, such as soup, mashed potatoes, or scrambled eggs, and avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods that can irritate the wound.
- Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities that can increase blood pressure and cause bleeding.
When Should You See Your Dentist?
If your pain worsens after 3 days or if you have any other symptoms, such as bleeding, fever, or swelling, you should see your dentist or oral surgeon right away. They can examine your mouth and determine if there is a complication, such as dry socket or infection, that needs to be treated. In some cases, they may need to prescribe antibiotics or perform additional procedures to alleviate your symptoms.
Conclusion
Wisdom teeth removal can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but it is necessary to prevent oral health problems. If your pain gets worse after 3 days, it may be a sign of a complication, such as dry socket. To alleviate pain after wisdom teeth removal, you can take pain medication, apply an ice pack, rinse your mouth with warm salt water, and avoid smoking and hard foods. If you have any symptoms or concerns, you should see your dentist or oral surgeon as soon as possible.
