Australian Dental Council (ADC) Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Maximum swelling after third molar surgery typically occurs between 24 to 48 hours post-operatively. This timing is critical as it reflects the natural inflammatory response that follows surgical trauma. Initially, there may be minimal swelling immediately after the procedure, which can lead some to underestimate the post-surgical effects.

The inflammatory process begins immediately after surgery, with swelling gradually increasing as fluid accumulates in the affected tissues in response to trauma and surgical manipulation. The peak usually reaches around the 48-hour mark due to factors such as tissue response, local blood flow, and the extent of the surgical procedure. After this point, the swelling will generally start to resolve as healing progresses and inflammation begins to subside.

This is an important concept for dental professionals to understand, as it helps in anticipating patient care needs post-surgery, managing pain effectively, and advising patients about what to expect in their recovery process.