The First Time I Have Felt Intense Pain is 3 Days After Wisdom Teeth Extraction, Why?

I had my wisdom teeth extracted 3 days ago and have taken pain medicine as needed only ibuprofen I haven't needed the prescription meds, but this morning I woke up to a horrible pain in my jaw on both sides. Applying pressure provides some sense of relief. Any ideas as to what it is? What should I do?

Suggestion:

You may have a "dry socket". This happens when the blood clot/scab-thing comes loose from the the hole where the tooth's root used to be. This causes the former tooth's nerves to become exposed. The pain can be equated to having dental surgery with no anaesthesia (LOTS!). Three days post-op is a common timeframe for someone to develop a dry socket.

Call your dentist – he/she will want to see you soon. This is serious – it could lead to an infection in your jaw or skull. Until you are able to go in, keep your mouth clean. Rinse gently with salt water occasionally – especially after eating (pinch of salt in a cup of warm water). This will help keep food/germs from becoming lodged in the hole.

Call your dentist!