How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tooth Extraction?

Thanks to modern dentistry, you can access several restorative dental treatments and prevent permanent extraction.

Unfortunately, sometimes even with all these tools and methods, a tooth will need to be pulled out to preserve your oral health. 

If you’ve recently learned you need an extraction, keep reading this article to learn what to expect during recovery, and how long it will take to bounce back.

When Is an Extraction Truly Necessary?

As a general rule, a tooth needs to be extracted when it’s severely damaged and cannot be fixed with restorative dental procedures.

These cases can include:

• A large cavity or infection
• Fractured or broken tooth
• Advanced gum disease

But, a tooth doesn’t always need to be damaged to warrant an extraction. For instance, people who need braces to resolve tooth alignment or jaw issues may need a tooth pulled out to create enough room on the arch.

Also, wisdom teeth are commonly extracted even if they appear perfectly healthy. They can push your other teeth together and create alignment issues. In these cases, your dentist will recommend pulling the wisdom tooth out to protect the rest of your teeth.

Recovering from a Tooth Extraction: What Happens?

After a tooth is pulled from its socket, a blood clot quickly forms in its place to protect the nerves and sensitive tissues from exposure.

It’s crucial to prevent dislodging this clot as it can lead to a painful complication called a dry socket. If the clot remains in place, patients can usually bounce back from an extraction in around two weeks, though the first few days will certainly be the most uncomfortable.

During this time, you may experience some pain, and swelling, and notice some minor bleeding. Luckily, your symptoms will gradually disappear, and most patients feel perfectly normal around one week after their extraction.

But, it can depend on how simple (or not) the surgery was. Healing can take longer for more complex cases, such as an impacted wisdom tooth that requires an additional incision into the gum to reveal the tooth.

How to Support Post-Extraction Healing

Your dentist will offer you tips that will help you care for your oral health.

These tips can include:

• Continuing to brush and floss your teeth daily, but avoid the extraction site
• Avoid spitting, smoking, or drinking through a straw
• Take OTC medication to control pain and swelling
• Chew on the other side of the mouth
• Opt for softer foods in the first 2-3 days
• Avoid crumbly foods like chips or crackers
• Skip the gym for a few days and rest

Tooth Extractions at Washington Dental Studio

Dr. Rohan Shah will always try to save your teeth and avoid an extraction. But if unavoidable, he can help you access safe tooth extractions in Naperville and restore oral health.

Request a visit to Washington Dental Studio online, or call us at (630) 796-0030.