Skip to main content

Post-Extraction Swelling

You’re probably aware that wisdom tooth extractions are followed by swelling. We work closely with patients at Healthy Smiles Family Dental to ensure that their recoveries go as smoothly as possible, but it’s true that swelling is almost inevitable. We want to reassure patients that this is normally not a problem and to provide them with information they need to protect themselves in case something does go wrong.


When a tooth is removed, the bone at the base of the socket is briefly exposed before the blood clots and seals it off. Inflammation is an additional immune defense against the spread of outside pathogens, but it usually isn’t necessary. For the first few days after an extraction, patients should attempt to limit swelling by applying cold packs to their jaws. They should apply the cold pack for fifteen minutes at a time, with fifteen minutes in between applications.


Swelling is usually proportional to the complexity of an extraction, with incisions resulting in more swelling than simple tooth removals. However, it will usually peak within three days. After that, patients can try reducing it by applying heat packs, using the same fifteen on/fifteen off rule. Patients should seek emergency care if they get a dry socket or if they notice tissue around the extraction site turning black or white, but in ordinary circumstances, they can expect swelling to go away within seven days.


Dr. Na Xu operates Healthy Smiles Family Dental at 2601 25th St SE #400, Salem, Oregon, 97302. Visit My Family Dentist Salem or call 503-385-1185.


 

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What You Should Know About Periodontal Disease

10 comments
Read more

Benefits of Teeth Whitening

Teeth become discolored by the foods we eat, the beverages we consume, and from lifestyle factors such as smoking, or taking certain medications. Discoloration is a natural part of life but when a patient desires a whiter smile, teeth whitening or bleaching can improve the color of teeth by several shades. At Healthy Smiles Family Dental, Dr. Na Xu gives patients the option to whiten in-office, or in the comfort of his or her own home. Teeth bleaching is one of the most common dental procedures that is performed across the country. Once the teeth become brighter, a person will feel a boost in his or her self-esteem and may desire to smile more than ever before. After scheduling a consultation to decide if whitening is right for you, Dr. Xu will either recommend whitening at home, with custom trays that will be created for you in the office, or laser whitening. If you have questions or concerns regarding teeth whitening or bleaching, please give us a call. To learn about services provid...
19 comments
Read more

Gum Disease Stage 2: Periodontitis

When gingivitis is left untreated, it will advance to periodontitis. Periodontitis is inflammation of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. When periodontitis is left untreated, teeth can eventually fall out. Our doctors at Healthy Smiles Family Dental want patients to keep their permanent teeth for a lifetime, which is why we encourage all of them to take preventive measures when it comes to oral health. Periodontitis is caused by the build-up of bacteria in the form of dental plaque. The best way to avoid plaque build-up is by keeping the teeth as clean as possible by brushing at least twice a day for two minutes and flossing at least once a day. As inflammation progresses in the gums, it will cause the gums to recede and the tooth roots to become exposed. This will cause pain, sensitivity, and soreness. Healthy gums are firm and pink in color, if your gums don’t fall into this category, schedule an appointment, today. If you have questions or concerns regarding periodonta...
13 comments
Read more