Wisdom teeth removal is a common dental procedure. However, many people experience pain, especially at night, after having their wisdom teeth extracted. This pain can be bothersome and sometimes even intense. But why does it seem to hurt more during the night? In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this discomfort and offer tips to manage it effectively.
What Are Wisdom Teeth?
Before we dive into the specifics of pain after removal, let’s understand what wisdom teeth are. Wisdom teeth are the last set of molars at the back of your mouth. They usually appear in late teens or early twenties. These teeth are often problematic because there is not enough room in the mouth for them to grow properly. This can lead to crowding, infection, or impaction, which is why many people have them removed.
Why Do Wisdom Teeth Need to Be Removed?
There are several reasons why dentists recommend wisdom teeth removal:
Impacted Wisdom Teeth: These teeth may not fully emerge from the gums or may emerge at an angle, which can cause pain and damage to nearby teeth.
Infection: If the wisdom teeth are only partially erupted, food and bacteria can get trapped around them, leading to infections.
Crowding: In some cases, wisdom teeth may push against other teeth, causing discomfort or misalignment.
Cysts and Tumors: Rarely, wisdom teeth can cause cysts or tumors to form in the jawbone, requiring their removal.
When your dentist recommends that you have your wisdom teeth removed, it is often to prevent future oral health problems.
Why Does Wisdom Teeth Removal Hurt?
The pain associated with wisdom teeth removal comes from the surgical procedure itself. After the removal of the teeth, the gums and bone need time to heal. During this recovery period, there are several factors that contribute to discomfort:
1. Surgical Trauma
The removal of wisdom teeth involves cutting into the gums and possibly removing some bone. This is a form of trauma to the area, which can cause swelling, bruising, and pain. The intensity of the pain may vary depending on the complexity of the extraction.
2. Inflammation
Once the teeth are removed, inflammation is a natural part of the healing process. Swelling can press against the surrounding tissues and nerves, causing discomfort. Inflammation can last for several days after the surgery, leading to intermittent pain.
3. Dry Socket
A dry socket occurs when the blood clot that forms in the extraction site is dislodged or doesn’t form properly. This condition can be very painful and is more likely to happen if you don’t follow aftercare instructions closely. Dry socket often causes more pain than the initial extraction itself.
4. Infection
While rare, infections can develop after wisdom teeth removal. Infection can cause pain, swelling, and even fever. If you experience unusual symptoms like pus or a bad taste in your mouth, it’s important to see your dentist.
Why Does the Pain Get Worse at Night?
You may have noticed that the pain after wisdom teeth removal seems to intensify at night. There are several reasons for this.
1. Increased Blood Flow
At night, when you lie down, blood flow to the head increases. This can cause swelling in the affected areas, putting pressure on the nerves and intensifying the pain. The blood vessels expand and the body’s natural healing processes may cause more fluid to accumulate around the surgical site, leading to discomfort.
2. Less Distraction
During the day, you’re often distracted by activities like work, school, or spending time with family and friends. At night, however, there is less to distract you from the pain. This can make you more aware of any discomfort or throbbing in your mouth.
3. Change in Posture
When you lie down, gravity no longer helps to drain fluids from your mouth. This can cause blood and other fluids to pool in the surgical area, increasing pressure and pain. Sitting up or staying in an upright position during the day can help drain fluids and reduce swelling, but lying flat at night can worsen the pain.
4. Body’s Pain Perception
Your body’s pain perception can change during the night. This is partly due to a change in your body’s natural rhythm. Your body may be more sensitive to pain during rest, which is why you might notice the pain from your wisdom teeth extraction more at night.
How to Manage Pain After Wisdom Teeth Removal
There are several ways to manage pain and discomfort after your wisdom teeth have been removed. By following your dentist’s instructions and implementing some simple strategies, you can reduce pain and speed up the healing process.
1. Use Pain Medication as Directed
Your dentist may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. It’s important to take these medications as directed, even if the pain seems to subside. This helps maintain a consistent level of relief.
2. Apply Ice to the Area
Applying ice packs to the outside of your face near the extraction site can help reduce swelling and numb the area. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, followed by 15-20 minutes of rest.
3. Keep Your Head Elevated
When lying down, use pillows to keep your head elevated. This can help reduce swelling and pressure around the surgical site. Try to avoid lying flat, as this can exacerbate swelling and discomfort.
4. Eat Soft Foods
For the first few days after surgery, stick to soft foods like soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. Avoid crunchy or hard foods that can irritate the surgical site or get lodged in the wound.
5. Avoid Smoking and Using Straws
Smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of developing dry socket. Additionally, using a straw can create suction in your mouth, which can dislodge the blood clot in the extraction site and lead to dry socket.
6. Rinse With Saltwater
After the first 24 hours, rinse your mouth gently with warm saltwater. This can help reduce the risk of infection and soothe the area. Avoid vigorous rinsing, as this can disturb the blood clot.
7. Follow Your Dentist’s Aftercare Instructions
The best way to prevent complications and manage pain is to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, such as fever or persistent pain, contact your dentist immediately.
When Should You Call Your Dentist?
Most discomfort after wisdom teeth removal is temporary and can be managed with pain medication and home care. However, there are certain situations when you should contact your dentist:
Severe pain that doesn’t improve: If the pain becomes unbearable or does not subside after a few days, it could indicate an issue like dry socket or infection.
Signs of infection: These include fever, pus, or a bad taste in your mouth.
Swelling that worsens after a few days: While some swelling is normal, if it gets worse instead of better, it could be a sign of infection or another complication.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing: This is a serious symptom and requires immediate medical attention.
Conclusion
While wisdom teeth removal is a common procedure, the recovery process can be uncomfortable, especially at night. The increased pain at night can be attributed to factors like increased blood flow, less distraction, and changes in posture. By following proper aftercare instructions, managing pain with medications, and seeking help when necessary, you can ensure a smoother recovery process. Always consult your dentist if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, and remember that most of the pain and discomfort will subside as the area heals.
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