Usually, getting rid of your wisdom teeth means the end of pain and discomfort. But what if it does not? Lingering swelling and persistent pain in your gums, especially near the extraction site, may indicate a budding infection. Confused? Don’t be. We are here with the top 10 telltale signs of an infection after wisdom teeth removal surgery for you to look out for.
10 Indicators of Infection after Wisdom Tooth Removal
- Difficulty in swallowing food is a major red flag.
- Excessive and persistent bleeding is not normal. Expect some drops to trickle down, but if it’s too much, get in touch with your dentist.
- Swollen gums around the extraction site.
- Persistent bad breath, even after rinsing with mouthwash or salt water, is not something to brush off.
- Numbness, even after 24 hours of the procedure, is considered a concern.
- Pus or abscess development in gums is a clear-cut marker of an infection that needs immediate resolution.
- A painful jaw when opening or closing your mouth post-surgery is not a standard effect.
- Constant dental pain, even after taking prescribed medicines, is not normal and needs attention.
- High temperature within the first week after surgery.
- If you see blood or pus coming from your nose, call for help.
Expectations after Wisdom Tooth Removal
Now that you are well aware of the signs to watch out for, here are some things you should know that are considered normal post-wisdom tooth extraction.
1. Mild Pain and Discomfort
Some levels of pain and discomfort are a given after surgery. Once the effects of local anesthesia start wearing off, you will feel sore, especially where the tooth was removed. However, the condition is manageable with medication. Although it might not work instantly, it will improve things over time.
2. Bleeding
As mentioned earlier, minimal bleeding is normal and expected as the extraction site heals. However, if it continues for a long period, do not wait for it to resolve on its own.
3. Swelling
Post-surgery swelling is common and is mostly seen around the jaw and cheeks. Usually, it goes down within a few days.
4. Difficulty in Moving Jaw
This happens because your mouth remains open for extended periods during treatment, which strains the muscles a bit. So, it is normal for your mouth to struggle with opening your mouth wide for a few days after the surgery.
5. Bruising
You may see bruising marks around the jaw and neck for a few days.
6. General Feeling of Being Unwell
It is normal to not feel absolutely okay and well for up to 2-3 days post-surgery. It could be due to anesthesia, wound healing, or the medications given during the procedure. You may have an upset stomach, fever, or general irritation, all of which get better after a few days.
Closing Note
If you spot signs of infection like difficulty in swallowing food, excessive and persistent bleeding, or swollen gums, get in touch with teeth experts from Sair Dental at 8410 Fondren Road, Houston, TX 77074 (832) 924-2666 and 10345 Club Creek Dr, Houston, TX 77036 (281) 558-1199 locations for more information regarding this issue.