How long does the pain last after having a wisdom tooth extracted?

Recovery after tooth extraction

• Upper jaw: Most patients experience almost no pain, and any slight discomfort usually subsides by the next day. Pain medication is only needed for a maximum of 2–3 days.
• Lower jaw: The procedure is usually more invasive, so recovery may take longer.
• Impacted wisdom tooth (eighth tooth): This is usually more painful than smaller teeth (fourth and fifth teeth).
• After extraction of the lower wisdom tooth: Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the procedure.

Possible complications

• Dry socket: If a dry socket does not form or is removed, complications may arise with the sutured wound. A dry socket is an artificially created blood clot that fixes the wound during rinsing and protects it from food.

Healing statistics after extraction

• 70% of patients are completely free of discomfort within 3 days.
• 27% of patients experience discomfort or swelling for 5-7 days.
• 3% of patients experience complications such as dry socket, which can prolong healing up to 14 days.

How to minimise the risk of complications after tooth extraction?

• Avoid extreme wound care: such as pressure rinsing, gargling and smoking.
• Brush your teeth carefully, but do not rinse with pressure.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash with chlorhexidine (CHX).
• Eat mushy food or carefully chopped food.
• Cold compresses, cold food - ice lollies, ice cream.
• Do not suck on the wound with your tongue.
• Avoid physical exertion.
• Rest according to the severity of the procedure.

If the pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist.