A 40-year-old member asked:
Following my wisdom tooth extraction my submandibular salivary gland is swollen is this normal?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in

Dr. Theodore Grellneranswered
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 50 years experience
It might be one of..: ... The lymph nodes close to the submandibular gland that is swollen due to the surgery. Since the mouth is populated with many bacteria, the wisdom tooth surgery introduces bacteria into the tissues and blood stream that will be "caught" by the lymph nodes.
If it is the salivary gland that is swollen, it might have absorbed pressure while your jaw was stabilized for the surgery. Apply heat.
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5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Robert Milneranswered
Dentistry - Cosmetic 34 years experience
Gland Swelling?: After extractions swelling is normal in many areas of the mouth. Glands, muscles, joint area, and tongue have all been known to swell. If the swelling persists past 7 days or is painful on light pressure after 4 days, it is recommended that you return to your surgeon for an evaluation of the area.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 44-year-old member asked:
I had a wisdom tooth removed and now submandibular salivary gland is swollen. Is this normal?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Randy Nolfanswered
Periodontics 44 years experience
Rule out infection: Most likely unrelated to the wisdom tooth extraction. Submandibular salivary glands can swell due to a damaged duct or salivary stone but the area of the duct should not be disturbed by wisdom tooth extraction. A stone is just bad luck not caused by extractions. However swelling below the tongue soon after extraction should be checked for infection and could be serious. Get it checked.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jun 18, 2017
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