Sore throat after wisdom teeth removal, Causes, and Remedies.

Sore Throat after Wisdom Teeth Removal: Causes, Remedies

If you’ve recently had your wisdom teeth removed, it’s not uncommon to experience a sore throat as a side effect of the procedure. In this post, we will explore the causes of a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal, discuss possible remedies, and answer some frequently asked questions.

Sore throat after wisdom teeth removal, Is it normal?

If your throat is sore after a recent wisdom tooth extraction, we’ve got good news. This is totally normal. Sore throats after wisdom teeth extractions are caused by sore and swollen muscles near the surgical area, and this is a common complication that happens in many patients who have one or more wisdom teeth extracted. Usually, your sore throat will go away within 3 days after your wisdom teeth are extracted. 

You may also notice that your jaw feels sore and tender, or stiff. This is also caused by swollen jaw and facial muscles. Applying a moist hot pack to the jaw may help provide you with relief from your discomfort.

If it’s been more than 3 days since your wisdom teeth were extracted and your throat still feels very sore and is not getting better. This is not normal, so you should get help from a doctor.

The same is true of any oral pain and discomfort after your wisdom teeth are removed. Pain and discomfort should peak within 24-72 hours, and then begin to subside until your mouth is fully healed, which takes 1-2 weeks. If you feel a lot of pain that persists for more than 3-5 days, you should also consult your dentist.

Causes of Sore Throat after Wisdom Teeth Removal

1. Intubation during anesthesia: In some cases, a sore throat may result from the insertion of a breathing tube during the administration of anesthesia. The tube can cause irritation and temporary discomfort in the throat.
2. Postoperative swelling: Swelling and inflammation in the mouth and throat area after wisdom teeth extraction can lead to a sore throat. This swelling may be a natural part of the healing process and should subside over time.
3. Dryness and mouth breathing: After the surgery, many patients breathe through their mouths due to the discomfort caused by the extraction site. This can result in a dry throat, which may lead to soreness.

Remedies for Sore Throat after Wisdom Teeth Removal

1. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water, can help keep your throat moist and alleviate discomfort. Avoid carbonated and sugary beverages as they may irritate the throat further.
2. Gargle with warm salt water: Mix half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle with the solution several times a day. This can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
3. Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help prevent dryness in your throat and alleviate soreness.
4. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the instructions on the packaging or consult your dentist or oral surgeon for the appropriate dosage.
5. Avoid irritants: Refrain from smoking, consuming spicy foods, and drinking alcohol, as these can further irritate your throat and slow down the healing process.

For more detailed information and professional advice, you may find the following websites helpful:

• Mayo Clinic
• WebMD
• American Dental Association

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does a sore throat last after wisdom teeth removal?

The duration of a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal can vary from person to person. In most cases, the sore throat should improve within a few days to a week as the healing process progresses. However, if the sore throat persists or worsens after a week, it is advisable to contact your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation.

2. When should I be concerned about a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal?

While a certain level of discomfort and soreness is expected after the surgery, there are certain signs that may indicate a more serious issue. You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or worsening pain that is not relieved by pain medication
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• High fever or chills
• Pus or discharge from the extraction site
• Swelling that extends beyond the immediate extraction area

3. Can antibiotics help with a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal?

In most cases, antibiotics are not necessary for a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal. The sore throat is typically a result of the surgical procedure and will improve with time and appropriate self-care measures. However, if your dentist or oral surgeon determines that there is an infection present, they may prescribe antibiotics.

4. Can I eat normally with a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal?

It is advisable to stick to soft and easily chewable foods for the first few days after wisdom teeth removal to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the healing extraction sites. Foods like soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and scrambled eggs are generally well-tolerated. As your healing progresses, you can gradually reintroduce a more normal diet.

5. How can I prevent a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the discomfort:

• Follow the post-operative instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon carefully.
• Take pain medication as prescribed to manage any discomfort.
• Maintain good oral hygiene by gently rinsing your mouth with a saltwater solution after meals.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity or activities that may strain the healing area.
• Stay hydrated and avoid dryness by drinking plenty of water and using a humidifier if necessary.

6. What helps sore throat after wisdom teeth removal?

To help alleviate a sore throat after wisdom teeth removal, you can try the following remedies:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, preferably water.
• Gargle with warm salt water (half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day.
• Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the instructions on the packaging, or consult your dentist or oral surgeon.
• Avoid irritants like smoking, spicy foods, and alcohol.

7. How long does the throat hurt after wisdom teeth removal?

The duration of throat pain after wisdom teeth removal varies from person to person. Typically, the pain and soreness in the throat should improve within a few days to a week as the healing process progresses. However, individual healing times may vary, and if the pain persists or worsens after a week, it is recommended to contact your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation.

8. Is it okay to swallow saliva after wisdom teeth removal?

Yes, it is perfectly fine to swallow saliva after wisdom teeth removal. Swallowing saliva is a natural and necessary process, and it does not interfere with the healing of the extraction sites. It is important to avoid spitting excessively or forcefully, as this can potentially dislodge blood clots and hinder the healing process. If you have any concerns about specific instructions regarding swallowing or any post-operative restrictions, it is best to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon.

Remember, if you have any concerns or questions about your specific situation, it’s best to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for personalized advice and guidance.

Also, Read:

• Wisdom Teeth X-Ray: What you need to Know
• Sideways Wisdom Teeth: Causes, Pros, and Cons
• The Benefits of Keeping Wisdom Teeth: Debunking Common Myths
• Sore throat after wisdom teeth removal
• How to Reduce Swelling After Wisdom Teeth Removal
• What happens if you don’t get your wisdom teeth removed?
• Can wisdom teeth cause headaches? 3 ways!
• Everything you need to know about the Wisdom Teeth