If you’ve just had your wisdom teeth removed and you’re feeling more pain than expected, you’re not alone. It’s completely normal to worry, especially when your jaw aches, your face is swollen, and even soft foods are hard to manage. Knowing when to expect the worst day of pain after wisdom tooth extraction can make the recovery feel more manageable.
What Is the Worst Day of Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
For most people, the second day after surgery is the worst day of pain after wisdom tooth extraction. This is typically when the anesthesia and prescribed pain medication given during the procedure have fully worn off. Your jaw will likely be at its most tender, and even opening your mouth to talk or eat may feel difficult. The swelling in your cheeks tends to peak at this point, making your face look puffier than the day before.
While uncomfortable, this stage is a normal part of recovery and often marks the turning point toward feeling better.
How Long Should the Pain Last After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Pain from wisdom tooth extraction can last anywhere from three days to a week, depending on how complex the removal was. If your wisdom teeth weren’t impacted, your recovery may be shorter and less painful. But if you had a surgical extraction due to impaction, it may take more time before you feel back to normal. It’s important to monitor your recovery closely.
If pain or swelling continues beyond the first few days or starts to get worse instead of better, there may be complications that need attention from your dentist.
How To Manage Pain After Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
There are several simple but effective ways to manage wisdom tooth extraction pain at home:
Eat Soft Foods
Stick to easy-to-chew options like yogurt, smoothies, and cottage cheese. Scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and pureed soups can also be great, but let them cool first. Hot foods can worsen swelling, especially on the most painful days
Take Painkillers
If your dentist prescribed medication to manage wisdom tooth extraction pain, take it exactly as directed. If you were not prescribed anything, many people find relief by alternating ibuprofen and acetaminophen every three hours. Always stay within the daily maximum dosage, and take painkillers with food to avoid nausea.
Use Icepacks
Apply ice packs to your cheeks in 15-minute intervals. Be sure to wrap them in a cloth to avoid damaging your skin. Icing is especially helpful during the first 48 hours to reduce swelling and ease soreness.
When To Contact Your Dentist After a Tooth Extraction?
Some symptoms may signal that something more serious is going on. Be on the lookout for the following:
- Fever: A fever can be a sign of infection, especially if it is accompanied by pus around the wisdom tooth extraction site or increasing pain.
- Uncontrolled Bleeding: If the extraction site continues to bleed and does not slow down, it could indicate a problem such as dry socket or another complication. Contact your dentist immediately.
- Worsening Symptoms After Day Three: Pain and swelling should begin to improve by the third day. If symptoms are getting worse instead of better, it’s time to reach out to your dentist.
While some discomfort is normal during the healing process, knowing what is not normal can help you catch potential issues early.
Reach Out to an Emergency Dentist for Wisdom Tooth Extraction Pain
It’s normal to feel uncomfortable on the worst day after surgery. But if your pain seems abnormal or your symptoms are progressing, getting professional advice quickly can prevent bigger problems. If your regular dentist is closed on weekends, Weekend Dental Emergency Care in Salt Lake City is open on Saturdays and Sundays. We are here to help. Don’t wait until Monday, book an appointment and get the relief you need.
