How long until my mouth goes back to normal after wisdom teeth extraction?

I got all four of my wisdom teeth out exactly one week ago, and I'm still having the aching/soreness/pain in my lower jaw as if I got them out yesterday. I guess I have a few questions regarding the healing: Is it normal for me to still be in actual full blown pain a full week later? How would I know if I had a dry socket if pain never subsided/came back? I can't open my mouth wide enough to fit a fork in, usually this only lasts a few days but no improvement in a whole week.. is this normal? All of my teeth on my bottom row are in pain, including the gums. The whole area is sore to the touch. Is this normal/if so, when will this symptom go away?

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Answer: Extraction Recovery

By Sarah h
Dental Professional

If you are still experiencing severe pain after a week along with swelling, you may have a dry socket. Healing varies between each individual patient as well as the age, general health and severity of the extractions. Swelling and tenderness is normal, you recently had four teeth removed from inside your jaw bone. If there is inflammation present, it makes it difficult to open wide, especially in the presence of sutures. If you haven't been rinsing with warm salt water, begin doing so immediately. Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory if you are able and start warm moist compresses on the area for 15 minutes on 15 minutes off throughout the day. Schedule a follow up with your oral surgeon as well. If there is a dry socket present, you will need to have it packed with dressing and medication for the next several days. Most importantly, keep it clean and free of debris.

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