Tooth Extractions Healing Timeline: Guide to a Smooth Recovery

Tooth Extraction Healing Timeline

The Initial 24 Hours

During the initial 24 hours after tooth extraction, your body begins the crucial healing process. Blood clots form naturally, and sutures help your mouth’s tissue begin to recover. While you might experience some minor pain and bleeding during this period, rest assured that it’s a temporary phase. Your dentist may prescribe pain relievers to ease any discomfort, but generally, over-the-counter medications like Tylenol or ibuprofen take care of the discomfort.

When applied to the face externally, ice packs can aid in reducing swelling, which typically reaches its highest point after 24 hours. Returning to non-strenuous activities like driving or office work within a day is possible for most individuals. However, you may need extra time off if your occupation involves physical activity.

1-2 Days Post-Extraction

The first two days post-extraction require special care as they are pivotal to your healing. It’s normal to experience some bleeding and soreness at the extraction site during this time. Here are some essential steps for your recovery:

• Get plenty of rest: Rest is crucial, especially during the first 24 hours.
• Change gauze: Allow the first gauze to remain for 30 minutes with pressure to aid clot formation. After the first 30 minutes, a clot should form. If it appears to be still bleeding, dampen a gauze and hold firm pressure for another 30 minutes. If there is still oozing, using a moist black tea bag will aid in clot formation due to the tannic acid.
• Take medication: If your dentist prescribes medication after an extraction, following the aftercare instructions is extremely important.
• Avoid smoking and straws: Smoking and using straws can disrupt blood clots, so it’s vital to steer clear of them in the early days.
• Elevate your head: Prop your head up with extra pillows while sleeping to prevent blood from pooling in your mouth. Use a dark-coloured pillowcase just in case there is oozing.

– Remember, you will have extra saliva formation and a little bit of blood mixed with saliva can make it seem like it is still bleeding.

-After 24 hours, gently rinsing with warm salt water helps the area heal and clear food. Do not dig at the site.

3 Days Post-Extraction

By the third day, the empty tooth socket should be mostly healed. Bleeding should have ceased, and swelling should be minimal. You may still experience some tenderness or soreness, but the pain should diminish. Here’s what you need to focus on:

• Saline rinses: To maintain oral hygiene, gently rinse your mouth with a saline solution or warm salt water.
• Brush and floss: You can resume regular oral hygiene routines, being careful to avoid re-injury to the extraction site.
• Eat soft foods: Eat a soft diet to avoid food fragments from getting stuck in the socket.

If the pain is suddenly intense or throbbing after three days, you may have a dry socket. Call your dentist.

1 Week Post-Extraction

The clot should be firmly in place around 7-10 days after your extraction. Stitches, if used, may be removed if they are non-dissolving. If you experience any pain or bleeding at this stage, contact your dentist for a follow-up appointment.

2 Weeks Post-Extraction

By the two-week mark, your sockets should be almost completely healed over. However, the tissue can still be tender, so don’t brush it too vigorously or chew on hard foods near the extraction site. While healing is advanced, there’s still a slight risk of infection or damage to the new gum tissue.

3+ Weeks Post-Extraction

The recovery is largely finished by the end of 3 to 4 weeks. You might experience minor sensitivity where the tooth was extracted, but this shouldn’t lead to considerable discomfort or bleeding. Your primary focus now should be maintaining cleanliness and preventing food or debris buildup.

Remember, every individual’s healing process may vary slightly, so always adhere to the specific recovery instructions from your dentist.

How to Enhance Your Recovery

Adhering to these recommended practices can minimize potential complications and accelerate your recovery.

• Gently swish with saline rinse: After the initial 24 hours, use a saline rinse to keep your mouth clean.
• Lean over a sink: Instead of spitting, lean over a sink to dispel liquids from your mouth.
• Maintain regular oral hygiene: Continue brushing and flossing while avoiding the extraction site.
• Choose soft foods: Opt for soft, easy-to-eat foods to prevent particles from becoming trapped.
• Chew on the opposite side: To avoid disturbing the healing site, chew your food on the opposite side.
• Rest adequately: Ensure you get sufficient rest during the initial recovery period.
• Elevate your head while sleeping: This helps prevent blood pooling in your mouth.
• Avoid hot liquids and foods: Steer clear of hot items that could irritate the extraction site.
• No smoking or alcohol: Refrain from smoking and alcohol consumption.
• No straws or spitting: Avoid using straws or spitting during your recovery.

At Brite White Dental, we prioritize your well-being and want to make your tooth extraction experience as smooth as possible. Don’t wait to get in touch with us if you see signs of severe bleeding, pus, fever, or increasing swelling after a few days. Our number one priority is making sure you’re safe and comfortable.

Please remember that this recovery timeline is a general overview. Your unique circumstances and oral health may lead to some variations. When you visit our office or a dentist near you for a tooth extraction, follow the personalized recovery instructions provided by your dentist, and you’ll be on your way to complete healing within a few weeks.