Wisdom tooth extraction is one of the most common dental procedures, especially among young adults. While the procedure is generally safe and routine, it has potential side effects ranging from mild discomfort to more severe complications. Understanding these side effects can help you prepare for the recovery process and manage any issues that may arise post-surgery.

In this blog, we will discuss the various side effects of wisdom tooth extraction, why they occur, and how you can manage or prevent them. Whether you’re considering the procedure or have already had wisdom teeth removed, this guide will help you navigate the healing process and avoid complications.

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth, or third molars, are the last teeth at the back of your mouth. These teeth typically emerge between 17 and 25, although some may never develop them. Wisdom teeth often become problematic because there may not be enough room in the mouth to grow properly, leading to impaction, tooth decay, or gum disease.

For this reason, many people undergo wisdom tooth removal, especially when these teeth are impacted or pose a risk to oral health. A dentist or oral surgeon usually performs the procedure, often done under local anesthesia, though general anesthesia may be used in more complicated cases.

Common Side Effects After Wisdom Tooth Extraction

While wisdom teeth extraction is a routine procedure, it is important to understand the side effects you might experience as part of the healing process. Below, we will cover the most common side effects, ranging from minor discomfort to more severe complications.

1. Pain and Swelling

One of the most common side effects of wisdom tooth extraction is pain and swelling in the extraction site. Pain typically peaks within the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication from your dentist or oral surgeon. Swelling in the surrounding area, including the cheeks and jaw, is common and can last a few days.

To manage pain and swelling effectively, applying an ice pack to the outside of the face for 15-20 minute intervals can reduce inflammation. You should also avoid vigorous physical activity, which could exacerbate swelling and discomfort.

2. Bleeding

A small amount of bleeding is normal after wisdom tooth extraction. Your oral surgeon will usually apply gauze to help control bleeding immediately after the procedure. You may be instructed to bite down on the gauze for 30 minutes to an hour to help stop the bleeding.

Contact your dentist or oral surgeon if bleeding persists beyond the first few hours or is excessive. In some cases, a blood clot may fail to form or be dislodged, leading to more serious issues like dry socket.

3. Dry Socket

Dry socket, or alveolar osteitis, is a painful condition when the blood clot that forms in the tooth socket after extraction becomes dislodged or fails to form properly. Without the protective blood clot, the bone and nerves are exposed, which can cause intense pain.

Dry socket is more likely to occur if you smoke, use straws, or spit in the first few days after the procedure. Symptoms include severe pain starting a few days after the extraction, a bad taste in the mouth, and visible bone in the socket. If you experience these symptoms, seeking prompt medical attention is important.

4. Nerve Damage

Although rare, nerve damage is a potential side effect of wisdom tooth removal, particularly if the teeth are impacted and close to vital nerves. If the nerves in the lower jaw or chin are affected, you may experience numbness or tingling sensations in the lips, tongue, or chin. This is called paresthesia.

This condition is usually temporary and improves as the nerves heal. However, in rare instances, nerve damage can be permanent. If you experience unusual numbness or pain, it is essential to consult with your oral surgeon.

5. Sinus Communication

The upper wisdom teeth are located near the sinuses, and during their removal, there is a slight risk that the sinus cavity may be inadvertently punctured. This is called sinus communication. You may experience symptoms like pressure in the sinuses or a persistent runny nose if it occurs.

In most cases, sinus communication is minor and heals on its own. Your oral surgeon may provide special instructions to help manage the condition and ensure proper healing.

6. Infection

Infection is a rare but serious complication of wisdom tooth removal. Symptoms include increased pain, swelling, a bad taste or odor in the mouth, and fever. If you notice any of these signs, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention to prevent the infection from spreading.

Your oral surgeon may prescribe antibiotics before or after the procedure to reduce the risk of infection. Following all post-operative care instructions, including proper oral hygiene, is crucial.

7. Limited Mouth Opening

After wisdom tooth extraction, it’s common to experience jaw stiffness, making it difficult to open your mouth fully. This condition, called trismus, occurs when the muscles in your jaw are sore and inflamed. While uncomfortable, it typically resolves within a few days to a week.

Gentle jaw exercises may help relieve the stiffness, but avoiding overexerting yourself during the healing process is essential.

8. Jaw Stiffness

Jaw stiffness is a common side effect of wisdom tooth extraction, especially if the procedure was extensive or if the wisdom teeth were impacted. This discomfort can make it difficult to chew or open your mouth fully. Resting and eating soft foods can help reduce strain on your jaw.

9. Bad Taste or Odor

Sometimes, a bad taste or odor may develop after wisdom tooth extraction due to food debris or bacteria trapped in the extraction site. While this can be unpleasant, it is typically temporary and can be managed with good oral hygiene and regular rinsing with a saltwater solution.

Long-Term Complications

While most side effects are temporary and resolve within a few weeks, some long-term complications can occur after wisdom tooth extraction. These are less common but important to consider when deciding to have the procedure.

1. Permanent Nerve Damage

As mentioned earlier, nerve damage is a potential risk of wisdom tooth extraction. While most nerve damage is temporary, in rare cases, it can result in permanent numbness or tingling in the lips, tongue, or chin. This is more common when wisdom teeth are impacted and near major nerves.

2. Damage to Nearby Teeth

During wisdom tooth extraction, there is a risk of damaging nearby teeth. This is especially true if the wisdom tooth is impacted or has limited mouth space. Your dentist or oral surgeon will take all precautions to avoid this, but it is a potential risk.

3. Misalignment of Teeth

In some cases, removing wisdom teeth can cause misalignment of nearby teeth, especially if the teeth are already crowded or the removal is done too late. This can affect the overall appearance of your smile and may require orthodontic treatment to correct.

Managing the Side Effects of Wisdom Tooth Extraction

After wisdom tooth extraction, taking proactive steps to manage any side effects and promote proper healing is essential. Whether dealing with mild discomfort or more severe issues like swelling or dry socket, following the right aftercare procedures will help ensure a smoother recovery. This section expands on managing the side effects of wisdom tooth extraction, including tips for those dealing with impacted wisdom teeth.

1. Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions Carefully

After removing your wisdom teeth, your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions. These instructions are essential for minimizing side effects and ensuring smooth healing. These instructions become even more crucial for those with impacted wisdom teeth removed. Impacted wisdom teeth, which are teeth that fail to emerge from the gum or grow at an angle fully, can make the procedure more complex and increase the likelihood of side effects like swelling, bleeding, or even infection.

Make sure to follow your dentist’s advice on:

• Medication: Take any prescribed pain relievers or antibiotics as directed. Medications are often essential for managing discomfort and preventing infection, particularly after removing impacted wisdom teeth.
• Oral hygiene: Avoid brushing the area around the extraction site for the first few days. Instead, gently rinse with a saltwater solution to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
• Physical activity: Limit strenuous activities for at least a few days after the extraction, as physical exertion can increase swelling and prolong recovery.

2. Manage Swelling and Pain

Swelling and pain are common after wisdom tooth removal, especially for those with impacted wisdom teeth extracted. Swelling typically peaks within the first 48 hours and should begin to subside after a few days. Pain usually decreases within a few days, but it may take up to a week or more to fully resolve.

To manage swelling and pain effectively, consider the following:

• Ice packs: Applying an ice pack to your face in 15-20 minute intervals for the first 24-48 hours after surgery can significantly reduce swelling. This is especially beneficial if you have removed impacted wisdom teeth, as this extraction typically causes more swelling.
• Pain medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease mild discomfort. If your oral surgeon has prescribed stronger pain medication, be sure to take it as directed to manage any significant pain.
• Elevate your head: When resting or sleeping, keep your head elevated. This helps prevent excessive swelling and promotes better circulation.

3. Prevent Dry Socket

Dry socket is one of the most painful complications after wisdom tooth extraction. It occurs when the blood clot in the tooth socket is dislodged or fails to form properly, exposing the bone and nerves. Dry socket is more common after removing impacted wisdom teeth because these teeth are typically more difficult to remove and require a larger incision.

To prevent dry socket:

• Avoid suction: Avoid using straws, spitting, or anything that creates suction in your mouth, as these actions can dislodge the blood clot.
• Don’t smoke: Smoking significantly increases the risk of dry socket because the sucking motion and harmful chemicals in the smoke can dislodge the blood clot. It’s best to refrain from smoking for at least 48-72 hours after surgery.
• Follow post-operative care: Regularly follow your dentist’s instructions for cleaning and rinsing the area to ensure the blood clot remains undisturbed.

If a dry socket occurs, you will experience severe pain for a few days after the procedure. If this happens, contact your dentist immediately. The treatment typically involves a medicated dressing placed in the socket to help relieve pain and promote healing.

4. Control Bleeding

A small amount of bleeding is normal after wisdom tooth extraction, but excessive bleeding can be a cause for concern. To manage bleeding:

• Bite down on gauze: After the procedure, your dentist will place gauze over the extraction site. Gently bite down on the gauze to help form a blood clot and control bleeding.
• Apply pressure: If the bleeding continues for a few hours, you may need to apply more gauze and bite down gently to control it. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your face can help reduce swelling and control bleeding.
• Avoid vigorous activities: Avoid activities that may disturb the blood clot or increase blood flow to the area, such as strenuous exercise or bending over.

Contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately if you experience persistent or excessive bleeding.

5. Eat Soft Foods

After wisdom tooth extraction, especially if you have impacted wisdom teeth removed, it’s crucial to stick to a soft food diet for the first few days. This helps prevent irritation or damage to the surgical site. Hard or crunchy foods can cause pain and increase the risk of infection or complications.

Suggested soft foods include:

• Yogurt
• Mashed potatoes
• Smooth soups
• Pudding or custard
• Scrambled eggs

Additionally, avoid hot foods and beverages during the initial days after surgery, as they can irritate the extraction site. Eating soft foods not only aids in your comfort but also helps prevent food debris from getting stuck in the extraction site, which can lead to infection or discomfort.

6. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated after wisdom tooth extraction is essential, especially if you’re unable to eat much for the first few days. Drinking plenty of water helps keep your body hydrated, aids healing, and ensures it has the fluids it needs to flush out toxins.

However, avoid using straws while drinking, leading to a dry socket. Instead, sip water directly from a cup to minimize the risk of dislodging the blood clot.

Conclusion

Wisdom tooth extraction is a common procedure that helps prevent long-term oral health problems. While most people recover without significant issues, it’s important to understand the potential side effects and complications. Pain, swelling, dry socket, and infection are the most common side effects, but they can generally be managed properly. Following your dentist’s instructions and seeking prompt medical attention for severe complications can ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

If you are considering wisdom tooth extraction or have already had the procedure, this guide will help you navigate recovery and ensure your healing journey goes smoothly.

References

https://www.colgate.com/en-za/oral-health/wisdom-teeth/5-possible-wisdom-teeth-removal-complications

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/wisdom-tooth-extraction/about/pac-20395268

https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/wisdom-teeth-adult