How long does it take to cure an inflamed wisdom tooth?
Mild inflammation of wisdom teeth can be cured within one week, moderate cases may require 1–2 weeks, while severe or recurrent inflammation might take more than two weeks to heal. Recovery time is closely related to treatment and care. If pain worsens or does not improve within three days, seek medical attention promptly to prevent the spread of inflammation and delays in recovery.
In mild cases, only slight redness and swelling of the gums occur. Rinsing with warm salt water, maintaining good oral hygiene, and eating a light diet can lead to complete resolution of inflammation within one week for most people. If the condition progresses to moderate inflammation with noticeable pain and difficulty opening the mouth, anti-inflammatory medications under a doctor's guidance and local irrigation are needed, allowing gradual recovery within 1–2 weeks.
Severe inflammation caused by impacted wisdom teeth, accompanied by facial swelling and fever, may require intravenous anti-inflammatory drugs or even incision and drainage, extending the healing period to over two weeks. If the underlying cause isn't properly addressed, inflammation may recur frequently. Each episode requires renewed treatment, making quick recovery difficult and potentially worsening the condition.
For daily care, gently rinse around the wisdom teeth with a water flosser every day to prevent food debris buildup; apply a warm towel compress to the cheek before bedtime to relieve gum swelling and discomfort; avoid spicy or hot foods, and opt for mild options such as yogurt and steamed pumpkin.