Do you have pain after tooth extraction?
Removing a tooth becomes necessary in some cases, such as large or deep cavities and problematic wisdom teeth. While the procedure is followed by discomfort, you may experience severe pain after tooth removal. Learn all about tooth extraction pain in this blog!
How Long Pain After Tooth Extraction Lasts
After the tooth extraction procedure, you are bound to feel some pain — you had an entire tooth removed, which leaves an open wound in the gums. Soreness and discomfort are expected, but how long the pain lasts depends on the kind of extraction you went through. Here is what to expect:
- Simple Extraction: You will most probably experience pain for one to three days after a simple tooth extraction procedure. In some cases, the site remains sore or tender for around a week.
- Wisdom Tooth Extractions: Generally, a simple extraction for removing the wisdom tooth is followed by one to three days of pain. However, if you need a surgical extraction, the discomfort will remain for around three days to two weeks. Moreover, you may even feel a slight increase in pain on the fifth day after tooth removal.
How to Know if Your Tooth Extraction Pain is Normal
While tooth extraction pain is normal, it can sometimes indicate an underlying issue. So, how do you know if your pain is normal or not? Firstly, you should keep in mind that everyone’s experience will be different — the level, duration, and type of pain you experience after tooth extraction will not be the same for someone else. If your pain is due to swelling and inflammation, it is considered normal. However, you will need to visit a dentist in the following situations:
- Pain in jaw
- Throbbing pain
- Prolonged pain
- Pain radiates to other areas, such as ears, temples, head, eyes, etc.
- Dry socket
- Signs of infection
Dry sockets and infections are pretty serious complications. You should visit a dentist right away if you suspect any of these conditions. Otherwise, further complications can occur.
Instructions for Managing Pain
After the procedure, your dentist will instruct you regarding proper aftercare for a healthy and fast recovery. It is important to consult a professional regarding your pain. They might suggest the following:
- Cold Compress: Applying ice or a cold compress can significantly reduce swelling and numb the area. If you use ice, make sure it is wrapped in a clean towel!
- Saltwater Rinse: Use a saltwater solution to rinse your mouth on the day after tooth removal. Saltwater is pretty beneficial for preventing infection and keeping the empty socket clean.
- Soft Foods: Your dentist will recommend eating soft foods after extraction, which protects you from the irritation and pain that your usual diet can cause. Plus, it prevents food build-up in the empty tooth, which can lead to infection and even a dry socket.
- Rest: Your body needs rest in order to naturally recover — don’t start lifting weights or getting back to work. Rest, especially for the first 24 hours, and stay patient!
- OTC Painkillers: You can ask your dentist for recommendations on over-the-counter medications if you have a low pain tolerance. It will provide you with relief and reduced inflammation.
What Should I Do?
Your problems do not go away as soon as the tooth is extracted; there is a recovery period to survive as well. During recovery, swelling, pain, and discomfort can take place. Usually, the pain goes away within three days to a week of extraction, depending on a number of factors.
At Perio Health Professionals, we are dedicated to providing exceptional dental and oral health care. Talk to us now at (713) 783-5442 or give us a visit at 3400 S Gessner Rd # 102, Houston, TX 77063, United States.