Tooth Extraction Healing Process | Eglinton Oak Dental

Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure that may be necessary due to various reasons such as severe decay, infection, overcrowding, or injury. After the procedure, many patients wonder what the healing process will be like and what to expect. Understanding the healing stages can help you manage the recovery more effectively and reduce anxiety. While everyone’s healing experience may vary slightly, knowing what to expect can help make the recovery process smoother.

What Happens Right After the Extraction?

When your tooth is extracted, you may experience some discomfort and you will likely bleed. They are normal reactions to the procedure. Your dentist will use a gauze pad to control the bleeding and will tell you to bite down gently on it. It helps to form a blood clot, which is also important for getting better. Otherwise known as dry socket, a condition in which the clot dislodges too soon, any complications can result from following post-operative instructions poorly.

During the first 24 hours, it’s essential to rest and avoid any physical activity that could disrupt the healing process. Ice packs can be applied to your face to reduce swelling, which is common after the procedure. Swelling typically peaks around 48 hours and then starts to subside. You should also be cautious when eating or drinking stick to soft foods and avoid sucking motions, such as using a straw, as they can dislodge the blood clot.

The Initial 3 to 4 Days

Healing after tooth extraction happens faster, in the first few days. Gradually the pain and swelling should start to decrease, but you will still experience some discomfort. Your dentist will recommend that you reach for over-the-counter pain relievers as this will help manage any pain during this time. It’s important to follow the prescribed dosage and not exceed the recommended limit.

During the first few days, it’s also important to:

Keep the extraction site clean: Gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water after 24 hours to keep the area clean and help prevent infection.

Avoid hot foods and drinks: Hot temperatures can irritate the extraction site and increase swelling or discomfort.

Avoid smoking: Smoking can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications, including dry sockets.

Rest adequately: Rest allows your body to focus on healing.

The Week Following the Extraction

By the end of the first week, most patients begin to feel better. Pain and swelling should continue to improve, but some tenderness may remain. You should be able to return to normal activities, though it’s wise to avoid anything that could disrupt the healing site. Any stitches placed during the extraction may dissolve on their own or be removed by your dentist in a follow-up appointment.

At this stage, it’s important to continue with good oral hygiene practices:

Brush your teeth gently around the extraction site, avoiding direct brushing on the area of the wound.

Rinse your mouth gently with salt water after eating to remove food particles.

Healing process after tooth extraction

2 to 4 Weeks After Extraction

By this time, most of the swelling and discomfort should be gone. The extraction site will begin to heal, and new tissue will form over the area. It’s normal for the site to feel tender or slightly sore as your body continues to heal.

During this period, you can begin to reintroduce solid foods into your diet, but still, avoid anything too hard or crunchy that could irritate the healing site.

Full Recovery: 6 to 8 Weeks

Although you may feel much better within the first few weeks, full recovery can take up to 6 to 8 weeks. The bone and soft tissues in the extraction site need time to heal completely. During this period, the hole left by the tooth will begin to close, and the bone will gradually regenerate.

If you had a wisdom tooth extraction or a more complicated procedure, the recovery time may be slightly longer. It’s important to keep up with any follow-up appointments with your dentist to ensure the healing process is progressing as expected.

Common Complications to Watch For

While complications are rare, it’s important to know what to watch out for. Some potential issues include:

Infection: Signs of infection include increased swelling, severe pain, or pus at the extraction site.

Dry Socket: This occurs when the blood clot dislodges or dissolves too early, leaving the bone exposed. This condition is often very painful and requires immediate treatment from a dentist.

Excessive Bleeding: If bleeding continues for more than a few hours or becomes heavy, contact your dentist.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek prompt medical attention.

Tips to Promote Faster Healing

Here are a few tips that can help speed up the healing process:

Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and soup.

Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking through a straw, which can cause the clot to dislodge.

Rest and avoid physical activity to allow your body to focus on healing.

Follow your dentist’s instructions for post-operative care to prevent infection or other complications.

Conclusion

The healing process after tooth extraction can take a few weeks, but with proper care, most people start to feel better in just a few days. Following your dentist’s instructions is key to a smooth recovery. Eglinton Oak Dental offers helpful advice and support to ensure you heal properly and quickly. Be patient, take it easy, and contact your dentist if you notice any unusual symptoms. With the right care, you’ll be back to your routine before you know it!