It is important to note that removing teeth is a surgical procedure. As with any surgical procedure there are inherent risks and the potential for post operative complications to occur.
The following is a list of potential complications or post operative sequelae that may occur during the removal of a tooth or teeth.
Swelling may occur on the side of the face where the tooth/teeth where removed. This is not unusual and will usually resolve in a few days.
After surgery you may experience limited opening of you mouth due to stiffness in the jaw muscles
Numbness of the lip and /or tongue on the side of the mouth where the tooth/teeth where removed may occur. In the majority of cases this is a temporary condition that resolves within a few days. However in some cases this numbness may take longer to resolve, and in rare cases permanent numbness of the lip and /or tongue can occur.
The teeth next to the tooth/teeth removed may ache temporarily - this is not uncommon
The corners of your mouth may be stretched and may crack - it is important to keep them moist with a suitable lip balm.
Bruising may occur on the side of the face that the tooth/teeth where removed - this is not unusual and usually resolves in a couple of days.
You may notice a slight elevation in body temperature in the initial 24-48 hours after having surgery.
Sutures (stiches) may be used to close the wound. If so a subsequent visit 4-5 days later will be required to remove them
The roots of the upper molar teeth lie in close proximity to the sinuses. Removal of these teeth my result in a communication with the sinus which can significantly delay healing.
Sometimes referral to a specialist is required to resolve this situation.
Specialist referral is available for this procedure.
After having undergone extraction/s you will be provided with a list of post operative instructions. It is important that you follow these instructions closely to ensure prompt healing.