The truth about how long the pain lasts after oral surgery for teeth extraction is that it varies from patient to patient. There should be no pain during surgery, but as the anesthetic wears off, there may be pain for the first three days. This is normal. Some more sensitive patients may be sore for a week.
It is possible to develop a condition called dry socket, in which the blood clot that forms as the wound heals dislodges and exposes the bone, causing pain. This could extend the time a patient experiences post-extraction pain. However, carefully following the oral surgeon’s post-surgery instructions can help prevent complications and promote faster healing.
How Is Pain Managed After Oral Surgery for Teeth Extraction?
There are many ways to reduce discomfort and manage pain after tooth extraction. Your oral surgeon’s instructions may include the following:
- Replace the gauze in your mouth regularly with clean gauze to help a blood clot form on the extraction site.
- Use the pain medications prescribed or recommended to you as directed.
- Use ice packs to reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
- Use a warm salt water solution to rinse your mouth 24 hours after surgery gently.
- If you have been prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed.
- As healing progresses and soft foods are consumed, do not use a straw to drink liquids or smoothies as the suction can disturb the extraction site and disrupt the healing process.
- Avoid consuming anything too salty, spicy, or difficult to chew as this will aggravate the extraction site.
- Keep the rest of your teeth clean by brushing and flossing them gently while avoiding the extraction site. This can help prevent infections.
When to Return to the Doctor
Your oral surgeon may schedule follow-up care with you to check on the healing process after teeth extraction. In some cases, you may need to return earlier if complications develop or you experience any of the following:
- Throbbing pain that does not respond to the painkillers prescribed to you. This could indicate a dry socket and should be treated immediately.
- Excessive swelling at the extraction site accompanied by drainage or redness. These could be symptoms of an infection and should be checked by your doctor.
- Jaw pain that is prolonged or radiating.
- Coughs, nausea, chest pain, and breathing difficulties are rare but necessitate immediate care should you experience any of these symptoms.
South Jersey Oral Surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Provide Comprehensive Oral Care
If you need teeth extraction surgery, you can trust our experienced South Jersey oral surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons. Call 856-582-4222 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Located in Washington Township, Haddonfield, and Woolwich Township, New Jersey, we serve patients throughout South Jersey.