Why Are My Teeth Sticking Together After Wisdom Teeth Removal In Vancouver

Why Are My Teeth Sticking Together After Wisdom Teeth Removal In Vancouver

After undergoing wisdom teeth removal in Vancouver, it's not uncommon to experience some temporary discomfort and unusual sensations. One such sensation is the feeling of teeth sticking together, which can be concerning but is generally a normal part of the healing process. Let's delve into the reasons behind this and what you can do to alleviate the issue.

Swelling as the Primary Culprit

The primary reason your teeth may feel stuck together is due to the swelling that often accompanies wisdom teeth extraction. When your wisdom teeth are removed, the surrounding tissues, including your gums and cheeks, can become inflamed and swollen. This swelling can push your teeth closer together, making them feel as though they are sticking together. This is a natural response of the body to protect the area and promote healing.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery

To manage the swelling and reduce the sensation of teeth sticking together, it's crucial to follow your dentist's post-operative care instructions. Typically, this includes:

1. Applying Ice Packs: Using ice packs intermittently can help reduce swelling. Apply the ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

2. Soft Diet: Eating soft foods that require minimal chewing can help prevent additional irritation to the extraction site and reduce the pressure on your teeth.

3. Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential. Gently brushing your teeth and using an antiseptic mouthwash can help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.

4. Medication: If prescribed, take anti-inflammatory medications as directed. These can help reduce swelling and pain.

When to Seek Further Medical Attention

While the sensation of teeth sticking together is usually temporary and resolves on its own, there are instances where you should seek further medical attention:

• Prolonged Swelling: If the swelling does not subside after a few days or worsens, it may indicate an infection or other complications.
• Persistent Pain: If the pain is severe and not alleviated by over-the-counter pain relievers, consult your dentist.
• Infection Signs: Signs of infection such as fever, pus discharge, or increased redness around the extraction site require immediate attention.

In conclusion, the feeling of teeth sticking together after wisdom teeth removal in Vancouver is often due to post-operative swelling. By following proper care instructions and monitoring your recovery, you can manage this sensation effectively. If you have any concerns or the symptoms persist, don't hesitate to contact your dental professional for further guidance.

Understanding Why Your Teeth Are Sticking Together After Wisdom Teeth Removal

After undergoing wisdom teeth removal in Vancouver, it's not uncommon for patients to experience a variety of post-operative symptoms. One such symptom that might be concerning is the sensation of teeth sticking together. This can be particularly noticeable in the areas around the gums and cheeks, as mentioned. Let's delve into the possible reasons behind this and what you can do about it.

Swelling and Inflammation

Immediately following surgery, it's typical for the surgical site to swell. This swelling can extend to the surrounding tissues, including the gums and cheeks. When these areas are swollen, they can press against each other or against the teeth, creating a sensation that the teeth are sticking together. This is a temporary condition and should subside as the swelling reduces, typically within a few days to a week.

Dry Socket

A more serious complication that could lead to teeth sticking together is a dry socket. This occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged or fails to form, exposing the bone and nerves. The pain from a dry socket can radiate to other areas of the mouth, including the teeth, making it feel as though they are sticking together. If you suspect you have a dry socket, it's crucial to contact your oral surgeon immediately for appropriate treatment.

Mouthguard or Splint

In some cases, your oral surgeon might recommend using a mouthguard or splint to help alleviate the discomfort and prevent the teeth from sticking together. These devices can help distribute pressure evenly across the teeth and gums, reducing the sensation of teeth sticking together. They can also help protect the surgical site from further irritation.

Oral Hygiene and Diet

Maintaining good oral hygiene and following a soft diet can also help alleviate the sensation of teeth sticking together. After surgery, it's important to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could irritate the surgical site. Instead, opt for soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Gentle brushing and rinsing with a saltwater solution can help keep the mouth clean and reduce the risk of infection.

Conclusion

The sensation of teeth sticking together after wisdom teeth removal is usually a temporary and manageable condition. However, if it persists or is accompanied by severe pain, swelling, or other concerning symptoms, it's important to seek advice from your oral surgeon. They can provide a professional assessment and recommend the appropriate course of action to ensure a smooth recovery. Remember, the key to a successful recovery is patience and following your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully.