Hong Kong woman develops severe infection after wisdom tooth removal in Shenzhen, admitted to hospital back home
According to Sing Tao, a Hong Kong woman posted on Threads that she had a wisdom tooth removed at a Shenzhen clinic on 7 May for about RMB 783 including medicine, plus about RMB 231 for a CT scan. Over the next days her face swelled, her throat hurt, she could not open her mouth and the wound smelled. Diagnosed in Shenzhen with a submandibular space infection and put on a drip, she did not improve, had difficulty breathing on returning to Hong Kong and was admitted to a surgical ward via A&E. The report carried no response from the clinic.
What it means for you
Swelling that keeps getting worse, or difficulty swallowing or breathing after an extraction, needs urgent medical care.
Editors' take: the background
A submandibular space infection is a dental infection that has spread into the soft tissue under the jaw. The airway is close by, so severe swelling can press on it: a sore swollen throat, being unable to open the mouth, or difficulty swallowing or breathing all need urgent care.
Some swelling in the first few days after an extraction is common. If it gets worse each day, or comes with fever, pus or a bad smell from the wound, go back promptly. Before surgery across the border, ask how to get in touch and where to be seen if complications arise.
How to protect yourself
- See a dentist promptly if swelling worsens day by day
- Go to A&E at once if swallowing or breathing becomes difficult
- Before an extraction, ask how to get follow-up if complications arise
Source: Sing Tao Headline
This is a news summary written by our editors, not medical advice. Please refer to the original source and seek professional advice for your own situation.
Questions readers ask
After a wisdom tooth extraction, when should I go to A&E?
Go straight to A&E if you have trouble breathing or swallowing, rapid swelling of the neck or jaw, or a high fever.
Can I be treated in Hong Kong after surgery in Shenzhen?
Yes, complications can be treated in Hong Kong. Bring your mainland records, X-ray or CT images and medication details so doctors can see what was done.
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