I still have swelling after wisdom tooth extraction. Should I keep using warm compresses?

The type of compress depends on how much time has passed. 1) For the first 48 hours (2 days) after extraction, use a cold compress to limit swelling, and 2) after 48 hours, switch to a warm compress to improve circulation and clear out remaining swelling and bruising. Swelling typically peaks 2-3 days after extraction and subsides within a week. However, if swelling does not go down after a week or worsens again with pain and fever, there may be an infection — don't just keep applying compresses, please come in.