You’ve probably seen pictures of your friend or a family member with cheeks looking comically large in the days after their wisdom teeth removal. But have you ever wondered why? Facial swelling is a normal part of getting your wisdom teeth removed, a procedure typically performed by an oral surgeon. A swollen face is a common result of the procedure, caused by inflammation and trauma to the area. But there are steps you can take to bring swelling down while still allowing your mouth to heal. In no time, your face will be back to normal and your smile healthier than ever.
A part of the process
The most important thing to remember is that swelling, even seemingly excessive swelling, isn’t anything to worry about. It’s your body’s natural way of protecting your mouth and going through the healing process. Swelling occurs as a natural response to the extraction surgery. The amount of swelling each person has will vary widely. In some cases, faces may not swell at all. If yours does, you can expect swelling to peak about 24 hours after surgery. In many cases, swelling will be worse in the morning and dissipate slightly as the day continues. Each person heals differently, so the timeline for swelling reduction may vary.
While facial swelling is not a problem, there are steps you can take to reduce it. Your dentist will probably recommend applying ice to your face, alternating between time on and off. After a few days, do the same using a heating pad. Keeping your head elevated while you sleep can also help bring swelling down. Anti-inflammatory medicine, including prescribed medication or over-the-counter options, can be used in some cases.
With treatment or naturally, your facial swelling should begin going down within a few days of your wisdom teeth removal. If swelling increases more than three days after your surgery, you should contact your dentist, as worsening swelling could mean that your socket is infected.
Whether wisdom teeth removal or a regular cleaning, you’re always in good hands at City Dentists.
Why wisdom teeth get removed
Wisdom teeth are typically the very last teeth to come in, often not until the teenage years or early twenties, according to Better Health Victoria. As a result, depending on the angle at which they erupt, they can cause crowding and push into the gum and tooth adjacent to them, called impaction. Impaction can be extremely painful and lead to infection. Wisdom teeth can also impact other teeth in the mouth, causing additional dental issues. In some cases, wisdom teeth can rub against the inner cheek, causing ulcers and making chewing painful.
How Your Dentist Decides If They Need Removal
As wisdom teeth begin erupting, your dentist will be able to determine if removal will be necessary, and if so, whether or not all four or just one or two of the wisdom teeth need to go. This is usually done with x-rays. In many cases, only the top or bottom row of wisdom will cause impaction, while the other two grow in without issue. Some patients may also not have some, or any, of their wisdom teeth. This is also perfectly normal.
What to Expect During and After Wisdom Teeth Removal
If your wisdom teeth do need to be removed, the surgery itself is usually fairly quick. The extraction process involves numbing the area, making an incision if necessary, removing the tooth, and then closing the site. However, care for your mouth will have to continue for several days after you leave the dentist’s office. For a few days you’ll probably only be allowed to eat softer foods and will have to forego smoking or alcohol consumption. Your dentist may prescribe an anti-inflammatory, pain relief medication. After meals, you should wash warm, salty water around in your mouth and then spit it out. Some patients may experience more swelling than others during recovery.
Watch Out for Dry Sockets
One complication to look out for in the days following your procedure is the possibility of dry sockets. A dry socket is when the hole left in the wake of the removed tooth doesn’t properly heal and is left exposed, according to Healthdirect. They can be extremely painful and may also cause bad breath, an unpleasant taste or even a fever. Dry sockets are more likely to develop if you smoke or don’t have the best oral hygiene. In addition, dry sockets are more common for wisdom teeth extractions on the lower jaw than those conducted elsewhere in the mouth.
If you do wind up having dry sockets, be sure to follow your dentist’s instructions carefully. You’ll probably have to flush out the socket with warm, salted water and then apply a medicated dressing to it. In some cases, antibiotics may be necessary.
While wisdom teeth removal can seem stressful, it’s important to remember that it’s a safe, standard procedure. Whatever your needs, the team at City Dentists is here to help! City Dentists takes the convenience of its patients to heart, with its central location by the Wellington train station, professional staff and modern offices.
If you want to get your teeth looking better than ever, City Dentists can help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment
Understanding Wisdom Teeth Removal
Wisdom teeth removal is a common oral surgery procedure that involves extracting one or more of the third molars located at the back of your mouth. Wisdom tooth removal is an important step to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications after the procedure. Typically performed under local anesthesia, this procedure ensures that the area around the teeth is numbed to minimize pain and discomfort. The length and complexity of the surgery can vary depending on factors such as the number of wisdom teeth being removed, their position, and the overall health of the patient. Often, wisdom teeth removal is necessary to prevent issues like overcrowding, infection, and other dental complications. By addressing these potential problems early, you can maintain better oral health and avoid more serious issues down the line.
The Healing Process After Extraction
The healing process after wisdom tooth extraction is a crucial time for your dental health, and understanding what to expect can help you achieve a smooth recovery. After your wisdom tooth is removed, it’s completely normal for swelling to occur around the extraction site. This happens because your body sends extra blood and fluid to the affected area, which helps protect the soft tissues and promote healing. While swelling may seem concerning, it’s actually a normal part of the recovery process and usually subsides as your body heals.
How to Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
To minimize swelling after tooth extraction and alleviate pain, it’s important to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by your oral surgeon. One of the most effective tips is to apply ice packs to the swollen area for the first 24 to 48 hours after tooth extraction. Using ice packs in 15-20 minute intervals, with breaks in between, helps constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation. After the initial two days, you can switch to warm compresses to further promote healing and reduce swelling.
Practicing good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection and support the healing process. Rinse gently with warm salt water several times a day to keep the extraction site clean, but avoid vigorous swishing that could disturb the blood clot. Maintaining the blood clot is vital, as it protects the underlying bone and gum tissue and helps prevent dry socket—a painful complication that can delay healing.
Pain Management After Extraction
Pain medication, whether prescribed or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, can help minimize pain and reduce swelling. Always follow your oral surgeon’s recommendations regarding dosage and medication use. In addition to medication, keeping your head elevated, especially while sleeping, can help minimize swelling by reducing blood flow to the swollen area. Use extra pillows to keep your head and neck supported.
During the recovery process, stick to a soft diet to avoid irritating the extraction site. Foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soups are gentle on your mouth and help prevent further complications. Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods, and do not drink through a straw, as this can dislodge the blood clot and increase your risk of dry socket. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is also important for your overall healing and to reduce inflammation.
Be alert for warning signs of complications, such as severe swelling that worsens after the third day, pus or discharge around the extraction site, severe toothache, or a high fever. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your oral surgeon immediately to prevent further complications and ensure a successful recovery.
By following these effective tips—using ice packs, practicing good oral hygiene, taking pain medication as directed, eating soft foods, and keeping your head elevated—you can reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and promote a smooth recovery after wisdom tooth extraction. If you have any questions or concerns about your healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your oral surgeon or dental professional for guidance.
Causes of Cheek Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Extraction
Cheek swelling after wisdom teeth extraction, also known as swelling after tooth extraction, is a common and expected side effect. This swelling is primarily due to the body’s immune response to the trauma of surgery. When a wisdom tooth is removed, the underlying bone and soft tissue are exposed to significant stress and inflammation. In response, the body sends extra blood and fluid to the affected area to nourish and protect the tissues, leading to swelling, redness, and warmth. This natural healing process is your body’s way of ensuring that the extraction site heals properly and without complications.
It is important to manage swelling effectively to support recovery and minimize discomfort.
Factors That Influence Swelling
Several factors can influence the severity and duration of swelling after wisdom teeth extraction. The complexity of the procedure plays a significant role; more complex extractions often result in more pronounced swelling. Additionally, an individual’s age and overall health can impact the healing process, with older adults and those with certain health conditions potentially experiencing more severe swelling. The number and position of the wisdom teeth being removed also matter; extracting multiple teeth or those that are impacted or infected can lead to increased swelling. Swelling typically peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours and then gradually decreases as healing progresses. Lastly, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, as poor habits can elevate the risk of infection and subsequent swelling.
Normal vs. Abnormal Swelling
Normal swelling after wisdom tooth removal typically peaks around 48 to 72 hours post-procedure and gradually subsides within a week. However, it’s essential to recognize the signs of abnormal swelling, which may indicate complications such as infection or dry socket. Abnormal swelling is often accompanied by severe pain or discomfort, increased redness, pus or discharge from the extraction site, fever or chills, and difficulty swallowing or breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your dentist promptly to address the issue and prevent further complications.
Reducing Swelling After Wisdom Tooth Extraction
Reducing swelling after wisdom tooth extraction involves a combination of home remedies and professional care. Managing swelling is crucial for a smooth recovery, so take proactive steps to manage swelling after the procedure. Here are some effective tips to help manage and reduce swelling:
- Apply Cold Compresses: Use a cold compress on the affected area for the first 24 hours to reduce inflammation and swelling. An ice pack can be wrapped in a thin cloth and applied to the cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between, to help minimize swelling safely.
- Switch to Warm Compresses: After the initial 24 hours, apply warm compresses to promote healing and further reduce swelling.
- Elevate Your Head: Keep your head elevated while lying down to minimize swelling.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out toxins and support the healing process.
- Rest and Avoid Strenuous Activities: Take it easy for at least 24 hours after the procedure to allow your body to heal.
- Follow a Soft Food Diet: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the extraction site.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Take Medication as Directed: Your dentist may recommend prescribed medication to help manage pain and swelling. Always follow your dentist’s instructions regarding medication use.
By following these tips, you can effectively manage and reduce swelling, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable recovery after your wisdom tooth extraction.