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Expert: - 7/16/2005


Question
I just got my impacted wisdom teeth cut out on thursday, and I have a lot of facial swelling. I've been applying ice to my face but with no avail. What can I do about the swelling?

Answer
Matt -  At this point in time, ice will not help the swelling.  I would begin warm salt water (one teasp salt in glass of warm water) rinses every 2-3 hours for about 5 minutes.  You should notice a pinkish discharge when you spit out as the trapped blood is slowly released from the wound.

After a couple of days you should see a significant improvement, but don't be shocked to see some black and blue marks on your face or neck.

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Volunteer

Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired

Expertise

I am a board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon and I am available to answer questions related to tooth extractions, implant insertion, facial recontruction, facial and oral tumor removal, TMJ dysfunction and various successful treatments, including surgery if all else fails, and occlusal discrepancy requiring orthognathic or jaw surgery.

Experience

Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon practicine for over 20 years. Assistant Clincal Professor and State University School of Dentistry.

Organizations
American Dental Association, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Education/Credentials
BA -University of Connecticut DMD - University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine

Awards and Honors
National Honor Society (OKU), Philadelphia County Dental Society, Mosby Book Award, Oral Surgery Honors, Summa Cum Laude

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