If your mouth is only opening up to the width of one finger after wisdom tooth extraction, it could be a sign of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or trismus, which is limited mouth opening. This can occur due to inflammation, muscle stiffness, or scarring in the jaw area following the extraction. While some degree of limited mouth opening is common after wisdom tooth extraction, it usually resolves within a few days to weeks.Here's what you can do:
1. Continue exercises: Keep doing gentle jaw exercises as advised by your dentist or oral surgeon to improve jaw mobility and reduce stiffness.
2. Apply moist heat: Applying moist heat to the jaw area can help relax the muscles and improve flexibility. Use a warm, damp cloth or a heating pad for this purpose.
3. Pain management: Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by your dentist to manage any discomfort associated with limited mouth opening.
4. Soft diet: Stick to a soft diet consisting of foods that require minimal chewing to reduce strain on the jaw muscles.
5. Avoid forceful opening: Avoid forceful attempts to open your mouth wider, as this can worsen the problem and potentially cause injury.
6. Follow-up with your dentist: If the limited mouth opening persists or worsens, follow up with your dentist or oral surgeon for further evaluation. They may recommend additional treatments such as physical therapy, muscle relaxants, or in severe cases, surgical intervention.
While some degree of limited mouth opening is common after wisdom tooth extraction, if it persists beyond a few weeks or if it's accompanied by severe pain or difficulty eating, it's important to seek professional evaluation to rule out any underlying issues and ensure proper management.
Answered2024-04-05 04:39:34
1/1 people found this helpful