What to Expect During the Healing Process after a Tooth Extraction

Having a tooth extracted may not be the most exceptional experience when it comes to dentistry. It can make a patient extremely anxious to get the healing process done and over. So, how long will it take for an extraction site to heal? The healing times will vary from patient to patient. However, there are certain things a patient should avoid in order to boost the healing process. There are also multiple factors that matter when it comes to the healing process time. Check out the breakdown of our timeline to get an idea of what to expect after a tooth extraction. 

The size of the extraction site does matter when it comes to knowing the healing process time. It also depends on whether or not the extraction was a simple extraction or a surgical one. A simple extraction is when the tooth has grown in beyond the gum line and can quickly be pulled out with dental tools. While a surgical extraction is when the dentist needs to make an incision along the gum line in order to reach the tooth that hasn’t grown in past the gum line. A surgical extraction will take longer to heal as there usually will be stitches involved and the gums will need to reattach to the proper places after the extraction. 

Within the First 24 Hours of Your Extraction

The healing doesn’t necessarily start within 24 hours of the extraction; however, after a few hours of the extraction, you will begin to notice the bleeding will have stopped. Pain from the initial extraction will also start to subside after the removal and you will only feel soreness at this time. It is normal to have some swelling during the first 24 hours of the extraction healing time, however, if the swelling continues days after the extraction, visit your dentist immediately as there may be an infection forming. 

It is recommended to take at least one day off from work to fully rest on the first day and not strain your body and mouth. You may also be on pain medication that may sway you from performing your best at work. 

Three Days After the Extraction

As the pain will start to subside, you will notice blood clots will begin to form in your mouth. It is essential to allow the blood clots (made up of red and white blood cells) to initiate the healing activity around the extraction site. These cells produce chemical factors that promote the healing process. Do not assume these need to be brushed away! 

What to Avoid During the Healing Process

1. Smoking: Tobacco carries toxins that can slow the healing process. The act of smoking can also expel already formed blood clots needed for healing. 
2. Chewing on Hard Foods: Adding too much pressure on the extraction site can slow the healing process and disrupt the formation of blood clots. 
3. Physical Activity: It is recommended to stay as rested as possible and not to strain your body or mouth. This includes chewing or talking too much, as well as total body work-outs. 

Contact Renaissance Dental Care today to learn more about our tooth extraction process.

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