Following Oral Surgery Explanation of Events That May Occur
There are several problems that may occur post-operatively of which our patients should be aware
- Swelling can be anticipated after oral surgery and the patient may have some difficulty in opening and closing the mouth due to muscle tightness. There is a normal amount of pain and discomfort which will be helped with medication and time.
- Following an extraction, the most unpleasant problem is known as "dry socket" (alveolitis). This problem occurs in about 10% of patients and unfortunately cannot be predicted or prevented. A "dry socket" indicates that the blood clot which was formed at the extraction site is no longer there which causes pain in the jaw, ear and neck. This is an uncomfortable situation which usually occurs the 2nd to 6th day after extraction. Recovery of a "dry socket" takes a week and a half to two weeks, during this period we can place a medicated dressing in the socket to help control the pain.
- Another problem that may arise after oral surgery, but is not very common, is that of a numb lip or tongue, especially on the lower jaw. The nerve that gives the feeling to the teeth, the tongue, and the lip runs through the jaw, goes right by, and many times through the roots of the third molar so that when the third molar is removed, the nerve is involved. Following oral surgery, the lip or tongue can become numb. This is normally not a permanent situation, but it usually takes several weeks to months before the feeling returns. As stated previously, this situation does not occur often.
- Oral wounds can become infected due to the high bacterial population of the mouth. Antibiotics are sometimes given for infection and for prevention of infection.
- Bone spiclues sometimes work their way through the gum tissue and feel sharp to the tongue. In most instances they work out on their own, but it may be necessary for the doctor to help in the removal.
If any unusual symptoms occur, call our Plano dentist office at once. The proper care following oral surgical procedures will hasten recovery and prevent complications.