“How do I know if I have an infection after tooth extraction?”
I'm 24 years old, and I've gotten one tooth extracted two days ago. The area is still hurting me, and I'm afraid that it's an infection. How would I know if I have an infection after a tooth extraction?
9 Answers
Some pain is normal so soon after an extraction. If pain persists beyond 4-5 days or seems to be getting worse, I would go back to the dentist/oral surgeon to rule out a dry socket. This is a condition that can arise if there is a problem with the clotting of the extraction socket and can be treated fairly easily with an iodoform gauze packing and an antibiotic.
If you have pain and a bad taste you could have a dry socket and you need to return to your dentist and have the socket dressed to stop the pain and prevent major infections
There are a few reasons that you still have pain. Sometimes it is just the healing process, or soreness from the trauma of extraction. More intense pain, may be the sign of a dry socket, which is also called alveolar inflammation. (Inflammation of the bone in the extraction site due to premature loss of the blood clot)
It is possible to have pain for a couple of days after an extraction. If, however, you feel swollen and/or feel heat in the area, I might think infection. It is best to contact the doctor who did the procedure.
Was your tooth infected when you had it removed? Are you a smoker? Was the area swollen, and if so, is it getting less or more swollen? Many times when a tooth is extracted and the bone was augmented around the tooth, that can cause pain & discomfort for a few days. You should definitely go back to your oral surgeon and have a post-operative check.
It could be an infection, dry socket, or normal post-op at two days. Infection would normally be accompanied by a fever. If your surgeon gave you antibiotics, take them as directed. Any post-op concerns are best addressed by the treating surgeon and post follow-up is many times included with the original treatment.
While infections after tooth extractions are not very common given the proper care, tenderness can still be expected depending on the extraction it self, was it simple or complicated. Something to look out for would be excruciating pain, foul odor with or without exudation.
The only way to know is to have it checked by your dentist.
Ramona
Ramona
Dental infections should be evaluated by a medical professional to prevent spreading. Tenderness in the area is common, extreme pain is not. You may have a dry socket and it may need to be “packed” to help with the discomfort. If you notice swelling, have trouble breathing, fever, swollen neck, seek emergency care ASAP.
My opinion only. Always seek a licensed dentist or MD’s opinion before treatment.
My opinion only. Always seek a licensed dentist or MD’s opinion before treatment.
