22/06/2026
Post-op Complications of Extraction
๐น Delayed bleeding
๐น Reactionary hemorrhage: 24โ48 hrs
๐น Secondary hemorrhage: 7โ14 days, usually due to infection
๐น Pain
๐น Normal pain peaks at ~12 hrs then improves
๐น Severe/increasing pain after 48 hrs โ think dry socket or infection
๐น Dry socket (alveolar osteitis)
๐น 2โ3 days after extraction
๐น Severe throbbing pain radiating to ear
๐น Empty socket, exposed bone, foul odor/taste
๐น No pus
๐น Common in mandibular 3rd molars, smokers, OCP users
๐น Post-op edema
๐น Peaks at 48โ72 hrs
๐น Resolves in 5โ7 days
๐น Ice first 24 hrs, then warm moist heat
๐น Hematoma / ecchymosis
๐น Blood collects in tissues โ bruising
๐น May spread downward by gravity
๐น Usually resolves in 7โ14 days
๐น Infection
๐น Fluctuant swelling, pus, fever, lymphadenopathy
๐น Swelling continues to worsen rather than improve
๐น Trismus
๐น Muscle spasm, usually medial pterygoid/masseter
๐น Caused by surgical trauma, prolonged opening, IAN injection
๐น Treat with warm compresses, NSAIDs, soft diet, jaw exercises
High-yield pearl
๐น Dry socket = most classic delayed complication
๐น Severe pain on day 2โ3 + empty socket + foul odor + no pus