It’s not unusual to experience some swelling after dental work. Whether you’ve had a tooth extraction, root canal, or another type of procedure, swelling is your body’s natural response to injury or irritation. But while it’s usually temporary, it can be uncomfortable and sometimes worrying—especially if it seems to be getting worse.
In this article, we’ll look at why your mouth might be swollen after dental treatment and what you can do to relieve the discomfort at home.
Swelling is part of the body’s natural healing process. After dental treatment, tissues in your mouth may become inflamed due to:
Swelling usually peaks within the first 24 to 72 hours after treatment and gradually goes down over the next few days. However, if swelling increases after three days, or is accompanied by fever, pus, or severe pain, it may be a sign of infection—and you should contact your dentist right away.
Here are some tried-and-tested ways to reduce swelling and promote healing:
Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth against the outside of your cheek for 15–20 minutes at a time. This helps reduce inflammation and numbs the area. Use cold compresses for the first 24–48 hours after treatment.
If swelling persists, switch to a warm compress. Heat increases blood flow and helps clear away fluid buildup. Use a clean, warm cloth for 15–20 minutes several times a day.
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce both pain and swelling. Always follow the dosage instructions and check with your dentist or pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Prop your head up with pillows when lying down. This helps fluids drain away from the area and may minimise swelling, especially during sleep.
Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (after the first 24 hours) to keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection. Avoid vigorous swishing or spitting, especially after extractions, to prevent dislodging any healing blood clots.
During the early healing phase, avoid alcohol, hot beverages, spicy foods, and intense physical activity—all of which can worsen swelling or slow healing.
Some swelling is normal—but certain symptoms could indicate a problem that needs attention. Contact your dentist if you experience:
These could be signs of infection, a dry socket (after extraction), or an allergic reaction.
Mild to moderate swelling often lasts for 3 to 5 days, depending on the procedure and your individual healing response. Most people see a significant improvement within a week. However, more complex surgeries, such as wisdom tooth removal, may cause swelling that lasts up to 10 days.
To help your mouth heal more quickly and comfortably, follow these additional tips:
Swelling after dental work is common—and in most cases, it’s nothing to worry about. With rest, gentle care, and a few home remedies, it typically resolves within a few days. But if the swelling is severe or doesn’t improve, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Prompt attention can help prevent complications and get you feeling better, faster.