Often considered a rite of passage for many teens and young adults, wisdom teeth removal can have some discomfort associated with the procedure. Pain is incredibly common, especially in the days following an extraction.
Wisdom Tooth Extraction Recovery Timeline
- Day 1-3: Mild to moderate pain, swelling, and some bleeding are expected. Stick to soft foods, avoid using straws, and get plenty of rest.
- Day 4-7: Discomfort should begin to ease, although you may still feel some tenderness. Most people feel noticeably better by the end of the first week.
- Week 2: Any lingering soreness should continue to settle. If stitches were used, they may dissolve on their own or be removed around this time.
- Weeks 3-4: Healing of the gums continues. You may notice very little pain—if any.
- Month 2 and beyond: While the deeper tissue and bone may still be healing, most symptoms should be completely resolved.
What’s Normal—And What’s Not
Mild swelling, jaw stiffness, and general aching are all part of the body’s natural healing response. But if your pain worsens after a few days, or you notice a bad taste, fever, or swelling that has spread, it could be a sign of infection or dry socket. If anything doesn’t feel right, contact your dentist promptly.
What Affects Healing Time?
Everyone, of course, heals at their own pace. Younger patients often recover more quickly. Healing can take longer if the teeth were impacted or the procedure was more complex. Smoking, poor oral hygiene, or skipping aftercare instructions may also slow down the healing process.
Tips for Wisdom Teeth Pain Relief
- Use a cold compress during the first 48 hours to help reduce swelling.
- After two days, switch to warm compresses to help soothe the jaw.
- Rinse gently with saltwater from day two onwards.
- Over-the-counter medications can ease discomfort—just be sure to follow your dentist’s advice.
“Every patient heals a little differently, but we’re here to make sure your recovery is smooth and comfortable,” emphasises Dr Dalia.
Find out more
If your pain lingers longer than expected or becomes more intense, don’t put off visiting the dentist—contact Pinnacle Dental to book an appointment and get the care you need.
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