A dry socket forms when the empty hole that held a tooth doesn’t heal properly after the tooth is removed. One study found that dry sockets occur about 12 percent of the time. What Are Other Complications of Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery?Ī common complication of wisdom tooth extractions are dry sockets. Click here to find a dentist in your area. If your sore jaw does not go away on its own, talk to your dentist or oral surgeon. The condition often goes away when the muscles begin to repair themselves, and does not require treatment. Trismus is often painful and can impact speech and the ability to eat. Trismus is especially common when the third molar is impacted. This can restrict the mouth from opening.

However, removing the lower wisdom teeth can lead to a condition where the muscles of the jaw contract, or tighten, called trismus. Pain after wisdom teeth removal surgery is normal and will subside as the healing process continues. The removal of the lower wisdom teeth from the mouth can upset the surrounding muscles and bones. Wisdom teeth removal means the four permanent adult teeth in the top and bottom back corners are removed by a dental surgeon. Why Do I Have a Sore Jaw After Wisdom Teeth Removal Surgery?

Crowding, also known as impacted wisdom teeth.

There are a few reasons your dentist may recommend you have them removed. Wisdom teeth erupt between ages 17 and 25. It represents 95% of all tooth removals among 16 to 21 year-olds with dental insurance. Wisdom teeth removal is one of the most common oral surgeries in the United States. Many factors play into recovery after the procedure, but the two most common problems after wisdom teeth removal surgery are pain and dry sockets. Wisdom teeth removal can affect the surrounding teeth as well as the jaw. Wisdom teeth removal surgery is often needed when someone’s teeth are crowding in their mouth. This can cause a painful tooth socket.Why Your Jaw May Be Sore After Wisdom Teeth Extraction

Excessive use of alcohol may slow healing.ĭon't smoke. Sucking on a straw may dislodge the blood clot.ĭon't drink hot liquids. Check with your dentist first.īelow are some things to avoid while you're healing.ĭon't drink with a straw. Rinse 4 times a day with 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of water. After 12 hours you may be able to gently rinse your mouth. Rinsing toothpaste from your mouth may dislodge the blood clot.ĭo keep the extraction site clean. Do'sīelow are some things to do to help your mouth heal.ĭo eat a diet of soft, healthy foods and snacks. Also drink plenty of liquids.ĭo brush your teeth gently. When lying down, raise (elevate) your head slightly. Limit activities for the first 24 hours after an extraction. This is normal and will go away on its own. Apply the ice pack to your cheek for 10 minutes.

You can make an ice pack by putting ice in a plastic bag and wrapping it in a thin towel. To reduce swelling, put an ice pack on your cheek near the extraction site. Ask your dentist if you may take over-the-counter medicine, if needed. Don't drive while taking any pain medicine as you may feel drowsy. To lessen any pain, take prescribed medicine as directed. Slight oozing of blood on the first day is normal. Bite on the gauze or the tea bag until the bleeding stops. The tannic acid in the tea aids in forming a blood clot. If you have a lot of bleeding, bite on a regular tea bag. The pressure helps to form a blood clot in the tooth socket. To help control bleeding, bite firmly on the gauze placed by your dentist. Doing certain things, even on the first day, may help you feel better and heal faster. When you've had a tooth removed (extracted), you need to take care of your mouth. After a Tooth Extraction: Caring for Your Mouth

Wisdom teeth removal aftermath