Although tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, the process can take a toll on your mouth and can cause pain and discomfort for a few days to several weeks. As such, it’s essential to know the tooth extraction healing stages and recovery time to understand what to expect during your recovery process.
Generally, a simple extraction may take about 20 to 40 minutes, while a more complex surgical extraction could take an hour or more. The dentist or oral surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around the tooth to be extracted. In some cases, they may use sedation to help you relax during the procedure.
After the tooth is extracted, the dentist will place gauze over the socket and instruct you to bite down to help stop any bleeding. They may also prescribe pain medication or antibiotics, and some aftercare tips depending on the case.
After the tooth has been pulled out, the recovery process can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction and your own healing ability. In general, it can take several days to a few weeks for the extraction site to heal fully. During this time, it is important to follow proper aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and to minimize the risk of complications.
Tooth extraction healing stages
A. Initial Healing Stage
After a tooth extraction, the healing process begins immediately. The first few days are critical to ensure that the wound heals properly and to avoid any complications. This stage begins immediately after the tooth is extracted and lasts for the first 24 to 48 hours, during which time, the blood clot forms and helps to protect the extraction site and promote healing.
You can expect some swelling and discomfort, which can be managed in a number of ways, including pain medication, cold compresses, laying properly at night, and eating soft foods.
The first 24 hours after a tooth extraction is critical for proper healing. During this time, it is important to rest and avoid physical activities that can increase blood flow to the extraction site. You should also avoid other habits and activities that can hinder the healing process, like smoking, using alcohol, or brushing your teeth aggressively.
B. Granulation Tissue Stage
This stage typically lasts from the 3rd to the 7th day after the extraction. During this stage, the body starts to produce granulation tissue, which is a type of connective tissue that helps to fill the socket.
By this time, the swelling and discomfort should begin to subside. Patients may gradually reintroduce solid foods into their diet, but should still avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can disrupt the healing process.
Tooth extraction site after 3 days
By the third day, you may start to notice changes in the extraction site and your overall healing progress. If your recovery is on track, you may expect the following:
Blood clot formation
A blood clot should have formed in the socket, which is a crucial part of the healing process. The clot protects the underlying bone and nerve endings and prevents infection from developing. It is important to avoid disturbing the blood clot during the healing process, as this can lead to complications such as dry socket.
Swelling and bruising
Swelling and bruising are common after tooth extraction, particularly in the first few days. By the third day, the swelling should have started to subside, although it may still be present. Applying a cold compress to the affected area during the first 48 hours after extraction can help to reduce swelling and bruising.
Pain and discomfort
It is normal to experience some pain and discomfort after tooth extraction, particularly during the first few days. By the third day, the pain should be starting to ease, although it may still be present. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Changes in appearance
Depending on the location of the extracted tooth, there may be changes in appearance after tooth extraction. For example, if the extracted tooth was a visible front tooth, there may be a noticeable gap in the teeth. If the extracted tooth was a back tooth, the change in appearance may be less noticeable. It is important to discuss any concerns about changes in appearance with your dentist.
C. Bone Tissue Formation Stage
This stage can last several weeks or months after the extraction, depending on the severity of the extraction. During this stage, the body produces new bone tissue to fill the socket and strengthen the jawbone.
From the seventh day to the end of the second week, the extraction site should be mostly healed, and any remaining discomfort or swelling should be minimal. Patients should continue to avoid physical activities that may disrupt the healing process and should follow their dentist’s instructions for oral hygiene.
Most patients can expect to return to normal activities within two to three weeks following a tooth extraction. However, it is important to continue to avoid hard or crunchy foods until the extraction site has fully healed.
D. Soft Tissue Closure Stage
This is the final stage of the healing process and can take several weeks or months. During this stage, the soft tissue around the extraction site heals and closes, leaving a smooth surface.
Final thoughts
It is important to note that these are general guidelines and individual recovery time may vary, especially in cases where the root extends into the sinus cavity. Patients should closely follow their dentist’s instructions for aftercare and contact them if they experience severe or prolonged pain, bleeding, or other concerning symptoms.
Otherwise, you can consider tooth replacement options after the initial healing stage, to prevent any shifting of the surrounding teeth and maintain proper bite alignment. Depending on your individual circumstances and preferences, tooth replacement options may include dental implants, bridges, or dentures.
Please discuss your options with a dentist to determine the best course of treatment.
