Sore Throat After Wisdom Teeth Removal: Causes, Remedies, and What to Expect
Removal of wisdom teeth is a common dental procedure that can be performed in order to prevent overcrowding, misalignment, or infection of the teeth. While many center heavily on the focus being made regarding the mouth and jaw, many report an unexpected consequence after the procedure: a sore throat. If this is how you are feeling, be sure that you are not alone—this is a general and usually temporary side effect of the surgery. This article will discuss why a sore throat may set in after wisdom teeth removal, what can be done to ease any discomfort, and when medical attention is required.
Why Does a Sore Throat Happen After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
1. Intubation and Breathing Tubes
During surgeries, especially when under general anesthesia, a tube is put in place to manage the airway. This can easily give you minor irritation or soreness in the throat after. It's just that this tube scratches or irritates the delicate tissues lining the inside of your throat. The resulting sore throat can be irritating for several days.
2. Inflammation and Swelling
Wisdom teeth removal typically involves an incision in the gum tissue and sometimes the removal of a portion of the bone, which would result in the removal of the teeth. In this process, there might be great swelling of the jaw, mouth, and surrounding areas. The swelling can extend to the throat; hence, a sore or scratchy throat can be experienced. Many natural responses of the body to trauma, which include surgery, are inflammation of the tissues and these might irritate the throat from nearby tissues.
3. Breathing through the Mouth
After the surgery, you may feel a little uncomfortable or have difficulty breathing through your nose due to the swelling or nasal congestion brought on by anesthesia or surgery. This may cause you to breathe more through your mouth, leading to dryness and irritation in the throat area.
4. Dehydration
Dehydration might result from fasting before surgery or as a result of the inability to drink liquids easily after oral surgery. Dehydration will lead to further throat soreness due to dry and irritated throat tissues.
5. Post-Nasal Drip
The body's response to surgery can translate into increased mucus, especially if you were under anesthesia. This excess mucus will tend to drip down the back of the throat, irritating it and giving you a sore throat. In general, post-nasal drip could make swallowing painful or cause you to cough further, irritating your throat.
How Long Does a Sore Throat Last After Wisdom Teeth Removal?
Fortunately, the sore throat following the extraction of wisdom teeth is normally temporary. In most cases, the soreness reduces within 3 to 5 days following surgery. However, if the sore throat persists for over a week or worsens, you should consult your dentist or surgeon as these symptoms could indicate an infection or other complications.
Home Remedies to Care for a Sore Throat After Wisdom Teeth Removal
A sore throat, though irritating, can usually be controlled by several home remedies and treatments. Here are a few tips to handle the sore throat:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink as much fluid as possible to moisten the throat and reduce irritation. Water is the best, but herbal teas, especially non-caffeinated ones, are also good options. Avoid hot drinks as they can increase throat irritation.
2. Saltwater Gargle
Saltwater gargling helps decrease throat inflammation and can wash out mucus. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water, and gargle several times a day.
3. Using a Humidifier
Humidifiers add moisture to the air, relieving dry throat irritation. Using a humidifier in your bedroom at night can offer relief.
4. Throat Lozenges and Sprays
Over-the-counter throat lozenges or sprays can temporarily numb the throat to ease irritation. Avoid excessive use as it can lead to further irritation.
5. Avoid Irritants
Avoid irritants such as smoking, alcohol, and spicy foods that can aggravate the sore throat and extend the healing period.
6. Soft and Cool Foods
Soft foods like yogurt and applesauce are easy to swallow and won’t aggravate the throat. Cold foods like ice cream can also help numb the soreness.
7. Pain Medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help soothe both throat soreness and general discomfort following surgery. Take them as directed by your health professional.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While a sore throat following wisdom teeth removal is generally not serious, there are certain warning signs that require medical attention:
- Severe pain or pain that is gradually increasing: This may indicate an infection or another complication.
- Fever: A high fever, above 101°F or 38°C, may signal infection and requires immediate attention.
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing: These symptoms could indicate a serious infection or allergic reaction.
- Pus or unusual discharge: Pus or an unpleasant odor from the surgical site may indicate an infection.
- Swelling that persists: If swelling lasts more than a week or worsens, seek medical attention.
Conclusion
A sore throat after wisdom teeth removal can be an unexpected and uncomfortable side effect, but it usually heals within a few days. Be mindful of your symptoms, and if the sore throat worsens or is accompanied by other concerning signs, contact your healthcare provider. Proper post-operative care will help soothe your throat and accelerate your recovery.
