What should I do if pain after treatment is worse than expected?

First take the painkiller you were prescribed on schedule, and if it is a surgical site, a cold compress alongside helps. Pain after surgery such as an extraction or an implant usually settles to a level controlled by painkillers within 2 to 3 days. However, please come in right away if 1) the pain does not ease or keeps worsening despite painkillers, 2) throbbing and swelling continue past day 3, or 3) it comes with fever, pus, or difficulty opening your mouth. Call us first and we will advise you.