Can't fully open mouth after wisdom tooth extraction - Dental Health Message Board

rkm0 · 05-08-2005, 02:33 PM

I had my lower right wisdom tooth surgically extracted on May 5 (under local anesthesia) and everything seems to be OK, except I can't fully open my mouth. I can open it wide enough to just stick my finger between my front upper and lower teeth. The sutures still haven't been taken out, so this may be normal, but I'm wondering if anyone else has experienced this. Thanks.

Aileen B · 05-08-2005, 04:21 PM

Hi, Had my left wisdom teeth , one impacted on 4th May (not pleasant to say the least) under local and am in a mirror situation as yourself, can only open my mouth to the same position, although the swelling and pain is now begining to subside, have been told by others it just takes time, so don't worry, your not alone!! Hope things improve for you very soon

rkm0 · 05-08-2005, 04:41 PM

Thanks, Aileen...helps to know I'm not alone!

Cinemagic · 05-09-2005, 08:12 AM

Yes it's normal. You kan help things along by applying warm compresses over your jaw near the ears. Keep trying to move your jaw and exercise it. When wisdom teeth are removed, you can get a stiff jaw for a number of reasons. The injection itself can create a mescle spasm. The pressure to remove the tooth can stretch the ligaments in the TMJ also causing some inflammation and stiffness. Most people also tend to try to keep their mouth closed due to the discomfort. This allows the muscles to stiffen as well. All will be normal given time.