Signs of Infection After Tooth Extraction: What to Watch For

Tooth extractions are one of the most common dental procedures – and usually, they heal without any serious issues. But sometimes, even when you follow post-op instructions closely, things don’t go quite as expected.

If you’re noticing pain that won’t go away, swelling that seems to be getting worse, or a foul taste in your mouth, you might be dealing with an infection. While most post-extraction discomfort is normal, it’s important to know the signs of infection after tooth extraction – and when it’s time to call your periodontist.

Let’s walk through what’s normal, what’s not, and what you should do if something feels off.

Why Infections Can Happen After Tooth Extraction

Even with good oral hygiene and proper aftercare, infections can still develop. They’re more likely if:

• The blood clot dislodges too soon (causing dry socket)
• Food particles or bacteria get trapped in the socket
• You smoke or use straws shortly after surgery
• There was already an infection in the area before extraction
• You have a compromised immune system or chronic health condition
  

The back molars – especially wisdom teeth – are also at higher risk of post-op infection due to their location and difficulty keeping the area clean.

Common Signs of Infection After Tooth Extraction

So how can you tell if what you’re experiencing is just part of the healing process – or a sign of something more serious?

Here are the most common symptoms to look out for.

Persistent or Worsening Pain

Mild to moderate pain is expected after surgery, especially within the first 48 hours. But if the pain intensifies rather than gradually improving – or starts to feel sharp, throbbing, or radiates to your ear or jaw – it could be a sign of infection or dry socket.

Swelling That Doesn’t Go Down

It’s normal for your cheek or jaw to swell slightly after an extraction, especially in the first two days. But if the swelling continues to grow, becomes hard to the touch, or spreads down your neck, it’s worth checking in with your dentist.

Fever or Chills

A low-grade fever can be your body’s way of fighting off an infection. If your temperature climbs above 100.4°F (38°C), or you begin to feel feverish, achy, or chilled, contact your dentist immediately.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

If you notice tender or enlarged lymph nodes in your neck or jaw, your body may be responding to a deeper infection. These glands swell when they’re working to filter out bacteria or viruses.

Difficulty Opening Your Mouth

Also known as trismus, trouble opening your mouth wide – especially when paired with swelling or jaw pain – can point to a spreading infection. This is more common in wisdom tooth extractions.

How Long After Tooth Extraction Can Infections Develop?

Infections can begin developing within a few days after the procedure – but some don’t show up until a week or more later. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on your symptoms beyond the first few days, even if things seemed to be healing fine at first.

Most patients notice warning signs around day 3 to 5, which is also the timeframe when dry socket is most likely to develop. By day 7, most of the post-surgery swelling should be gone, and pain should be minimal. If it’s not, give your dental provider a call.

What’s the Difference Between an Infection and Dry Socket?

Dry socket isn’t technically an infection – but it can feel just as painful. It happens when the protective blood clot is dislodged or dissolves too early, exposing the bone underneath.

What to Do If You Think You Have an Infection

If you’re noticing any of the symptoms above, the best thing to do is to contact your dentist or periodontist right away. They’ll take a look at the site, clean out any debris, and may prescribe:

• Antibiotics to control the infection
• Pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications
• Socket irrigation to flush out trapped bacteria
• Follow-up care to ensure proper healing

At Commonwealth Periodontics and Implant Center, we offer gentle and thorough post-op care. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are normal, don’t wait, reach out.

How to Lower Your Risk of Post-Extraction Infections

Most infections are preventable with the right aftercare. Here’s what we recommend:

Do:

• Rinse gently with warm salt water starting 24 hours after surgery
• Stick to soft foods for the first few days
• Keep the extraction site clean, but avoid brushing it directly at first
• Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest

Don’t:

• Smoke or vape for at least 72 hours
• Drink through straws
• Eat crunchy, sticky, or small-seeded foods that can get stuck in the socket
• Skip your follow-up appointments

Following your surgeon’s post-op instructions makes a big difference in how smoothly you recover.

FAQs: Signs of Infection After Tooth Extraction

How do I know if my tooth extraction site is infected?

Look for pain that gets worse after the third day, swelling that won’t go down, pus, fever, or a foul taste or smell in your mouth.

Can I get an infection weeks after surgery?

It’s less common, but yes. Infections can develop later, especially if food or bacteria get trapped in a partially healed socket.

Is some bleeding normal after extraction?

A little oozing or pink saliva is normal in the first 24 – 48 hours. Active bleeding or blood clots that keep coming out should be reported to your dentist.

Do I always need antibiotics for a post-extraction infection?

Not always. Minor cases may be treated with cleaning and warm saltwater rinses, but moderate to severe infections usually need antibiotics.

How long should I feel pain after a tooth is pulled?

Some soreness is normal for up to a week. If it’s getting worse – or still intense after a few days – check in with your provider.

In Summary: Don’t Ignore the Signs

Most extractions heal without any issues, but it’s important to know what’s normal and what’s not. Pain, swelling, and a bit of discomfort are all expected. But if you notice symptoms that seem to be getting worse – or just something that feels “off” – it’s always better to ask.

Catching an infection early means faster healing and less pain down the line. And if you need help, our team at Commonwealth Periodontics and Implant Center is just a call away.