How do I care for swelling?

Question

I'm seventeen and just had 4 impacted wisdom teeth removed almost 4 days ago. Now I'm in the worst pain ever, and my face looks like a watermelon! My surgeon only gave me vikaden and ibuprofen 800 and a few gauze. I've been taking my medicine which only helps the pain for a little while. The swelling is almost down to my neck and its tender to the touch *ouch*. I've been icing which seems to do nothing....any other suggestions? I'm in a lot of pain so suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Well, as a veteran of having several wisdoms removed (one even dared to grow back!  lol)  I can tell you that much pain and swelling is unusual.

There is a possibility that you may have gotten an infection and need antibiotics.  Please return to your dentist asap.

Ice is pretty much useless after 48 hours. Switch to nice hot poultices. A washcloth dipped in hot water will make a decent start. This can reduce swelling, drain out bacteria, and just plain feel nice.  Now I know you've been rinsing with warm salt-water, right?  Right?  lol  Make it as warm as you can stand it and rinse several times a day.  I don't mean you have to vigorously swish every time. Every other time, just hold it and let the extraction sites soak in it.

Personally, I have used a mouth rinse made with comfrey that did wonders to ease pain, bring down the swelling, and made everything heal faster.  If you have access to some comfrey and wish to try this, make sure there is no more bleeding in your mouth first and do not swallow it.  And definitely don't use if you have any kidney problems.

(I wouldn't even offer these warnings if the FDA hadn't scared everyone silly in their campaign against herbal remedies but there are going to be a few anti-comfrey people screaming, "No, don't do that!"  Sigh.

In any case, get to a dentist and find out what's up.  I feel your pain, oh yes I do.  (Hug)

Oops!  I just remembered that I drank alot of chamomille tea, too.  It also helps with swelling and is a weak antibacterial.  Hey, every little bit helps.

Answer 2

I'd go back and see the dentist.  That sounds like something bad's going down inside you, because the swelling shouldn't be that bad, especially after four days.  Go talk to the dentist.  He'll know what to do... I hope...