Tooth Extraction Healing Stages: What to Expect?

July 30, 2024
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If you’ve just had a tooth extracted, you’re probably wondering how long it will take to heal. In this blog, we’ll explain the different tooth extraction healing stages and give you post-extraction care tips for a speedy recovery.

What is the Typical Tooth Extraction Healing Timeline?

Your mouth will go through different stages as it heals after your tooth is extracted. Let’s break down what to expect and how long it might take.

Day 1-3 – Immediate Post-Extraction Care

Right after your tooth extraction, it’s important to follow your dentist’s advice carefully. This will help your mouth heal properly.

So, bite down on the gauze your dentist gave you to help stop the bleeding and form a blood clot. Take pain relievers as prescribed and use ice packs to reduce swelling.

Not only that, but stick to soft foods like soup or yogurt to avoid hurting your mouth, and don’t eat anything hot, spicy, or crunchy. These can irritate the area where your tooth was.

Day 4-7 – Initial Healing Phase

As your mouth continues to heal, focus on keeping the area clean and comfortable.

If you had stitches, they might start to dissolve now. So make sure to gently brush and rinse your mouth with salt water to prevent infection. During this phase, ensure not to smoke or use straws, as this can interfere with healing.

Weeks 2-3 – Secondary Healing Phase

During the second and third weeks, your gums will start to heal and look better. But be careful because you could still get an infection (dry socket).

You can slowly start eating your normal food again, but be gentle with the area where your tooth was. Look for any problems and contact your dentist right away if you’re worried.

4+ Weeks Post Extraction

After four weeks, your body will continue to heal the bone where your tooth was. This is important if you want to get dental implants later.

Keep visiting your dentist for checkups to make sure everything is healing well. With patience and good care, your mouth will fully recover.

Post-Extraction Care Tips

After your tooth is pulled, it’s important to take good care of the area to help it heal properly.

  • Right after the extraction, bite down on the gauze that your dentist gave you for about 30-45 minutes to stop the bleeding.
  • To reduce swelling, apply an ice pack to your cheek on the side of the extraction for about 20 minutes several times a day.
  • Don’t smoke or use straws.
  • Eat only soft foods like yogurt or soup for the first day.
  • Brush your teeth gently, but avoid the area where your tooth was pulled.
  • Use an antimicrobial mouth rinse as instructed by your dentist or oral surgeon.

Final Word

Healing times after tooth extraction may vary from person to person, depending on their age and health. However, if you follow your dentist’s instructions, you should recover quickly.

Looking for a reputable dentist in Spring for your tooth extraction? At Saifee Family Dentistry of Spring, Dr. Husein Alibhai and his team are ready to help. We’ll review your dental history and determine the best treatment for you.

Contact us online or call (281) 350-5600 to schedule an appointment today.

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