I got a wisdom tooth pulled Tuesday (7-22-08) and my jaw is still swollen. Is this normal?

Question

It was a pretty rough removal since the tooth had hooked roots that went beneath one another. The Oral Surgeon (don't call him a dentist whatever you do) had to section the tooth and drill into the jaw bone slightly to get it out (it was partially impacted). That was all 4 days ago and my jaw is still swollen and tender to the touch. I go back Wed. (7-30-08) to get the stitches removed, but I was wondering if this is normal or could I have an infection .. or possibly could the stitches be preventing the swelling from going down? I used an ice pack the first day like he instructed and haven't used anything since.

Thanks.

Answer 1

It sounds normal, but I wonder.did the Oral Surgeon put you on Anti-biotics?   I hope so.

Now you know why they call us "patients" (patience)

Answer 2

Yes it's pretty normal with what he had to do to still be swollen like that.  You yourself say this one was a pretty rough removal and he had to go into the jawbone to get it out, so more swelling then the other extractions is probably to be expected.  If the area gets hot or continues to swell even more then you should either take a trip to the ER or call your oral surgeon to make sure everything is okay.  Remember to use the ice pack around the area and not directly on the swollen part.

Answer 3

Did the office give you any per op to do ? like take any aspirin ,? rinse out   your month with warm salt water,? take meds  ?