Hi I have had a tooth extraction over a week ago. It was my lower jaw. Since then I still find it painful to open my mouth. When I do it hurts across my face down my neck and up to my ear. Do you think I still have an infection?
Hi, Difficulty in completely opening the mouth is called Erasmus. This problem can occur after wisdom tooth extraction, as it is usually a surgical extraction resulting in trauma to the adjoining tissues. If you have completed the course of antibiotics and your dentist is sure that the extraction site looks clean then you just need to do warm siege gargles 3-4 times/day and may be a mild muscle relaxant coupled with a painkiller to relax the strained muscles and help in healing. The pain should reduce, and then you should be able to open your mouth fully without any difficulty soon. If the problem continues i strongly advice you to re visit your dentist for a thorough check-up. Regards