Jaw

[Hmb12]

A week has gone by from all four impacted wisdom teeth were surgically removed. My jaw on the right side feels like it is locked. I can only open my jaw 1 inch. When I try to open it farther I get excruciating pain and it won't open. Left side is fine. I was very swollen the first three days after surgery. What should I do?


This discussion is related to pain in the jaw and difficult opening mouth wide.

[Hmb12]

Thanks for info. I appreciate it.

[Aprilchristine]

I had the same problem. Could only open my mouth about half an inch at first. I am now 18 days out from surgery for wisdom tooth removal and I can almost open completely normally now with a little bit of effort. Hopefully helpful information for you. Hope you feel better soon.

[Hmb12]

Thanks for your help.   I went back to my oral surgeon. He gave me an anti inflammatory and exercises to do. I'm also putting moist heat on the area 3 times a day for 20 minutes.  I've also been instructed to eat soft foods and I can't chew gum. I have a follow up in two weeks. How long do these symptoms usually last?  

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hello and hope you are doing well.
During dental procedures or treatment on the lower jaw, a mandibular block is given for local anesthesia. In few cases where there are variations in a person’s anatomy, the needle can penetrate a muscle. As a result muscle fibers can be torn and even a blood vessel can be punctured .This can cause  a small bleed or bruise called as a hematoma. In cases where the extraction was difficult or surgery was necessary to remove tissue and bone covering the wisdom teeth the chances of trismus are increased. You may need heat packs and stretching exercises .Consult your dentist. Keep me posted.
Best luck and regards!

[scottma]

Going back to your oral surgeon to have a post op exam is advised.