What are Common Complications of Wisdom Tooth Extraction?
Like any other surgical operation, there are complications that can have uncomfortable side effects. However, it must be noted that these are rare and with care a surgeon can easily remove wisdom teeth with the minimum of post-operative discomfort to the patient.
Common problems are:
- Numbness of the lower lip or side of tongue
As the wisdom tooth is surgically extracted from bone, the nerves leading to the lower lip or tongue may be bruised leading to temporary numbness of the area supplied by the nerve. This usually corrects itself once healing is complete and you will get most, if not all, of the feeling back in a few weeks. Occasionally, the nerve can be permanently damaged and this may leave you with a small portion of your lip numb permanently. In most cases, you will get used to this.
- Pain and Swelling
Depending on the individual, there may be pain and swelling after surgery. Some people complain of very little discomfort whereas others have substantial pain for upwards of a week. The swelling may give the impression that you are sufferring from mumps! This may also cause the muscles in the lower jaw to tighten lessening your ability to open your mouth wide. Pain and swelling is controlled by prescribed medication.
- Bruising
Extensive bruising can occur post-operatively, causing an unsightly mark from the lower jaw, side of the cheek and neck. This clears up within a week but can cause concern to those individuals not expecting such extensive bruising.
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Damage to other teeth
Extractions are not general gentle procedures and it is not uncommon for chips and fractures to occur on teeth neighbouring the one being taken out. Occasionally, surrounding teeth can be bruised and ache for a day or two. Always consult your surgeon or dentist if you think a tooth has been chipped or damaged.
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