I had all wisdom teeth extracted about 5 days ago, and its been swelling up for a few days. it hurts occasionally. it doesn't look like dry socket.

Swelling post-ext: If the swelling is subsiding each day, that sounds normal. If the swelling is increasing each day it might be infected. In any case, you should call the dentist who removed your teeth and let him\her know. You will probably be asked to come back to the office for an evaluation.

Swelling: Post surgical swelling is normal. Dry socket is diagnosed by review of symptoms, not by sight. If you have questions, post=surgical reevaluation is part of the service you have paid for. Return to the Surgeon or General Dentist that treated you for reevaluation if you have any questions.