How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take to Heal?

A close up of dental instruments with a tooth in the middle

Understanding the healing process after tooth extraction can help you manage your expectations and recovery more effectively. This article provides the stages of healing, factors affecting recovery time, and tips for a smoother healing process.


Initial Healing Phase (First 24-48 Hours)

  • What to Expect in the First 24-48 Hours

The initial 24-48 hours after tooth extraction are crucial for healing. During this period, a blood clot forms in the socket, essential for protecting the underlying bone and nerve endings.


Managing Pain and Swelling

Pain and swelling are common during the first couple of days. To manage these symptoms:


Pain Relief: Use prescribed painkillers or over-the-counter pain relievers as your Rolling Hills dentist recommends.

Swelling Reduction: Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 10-20 minutes to reduce swelling.

Activity Level: Avoid strenuous activities to prevent dislodging the blood clot.


Maintaining Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is essential, but care must be taken to avoid disturbing the extraction site:

  • Rinsing: Gently rinse your mouth with a saline solution. Avoid rinsing, swishing, or gargling vigorously to prevent dislodging the blood clot.
  • Brushing: Do not brush near the extraction site to avoid irritation.



Additional Tips for the First 2 Days of Aftercare



  • Rest: Ensure you get plenty of rest, especially in the first 24 hours after the extraction.
  • Gauze Management: Leave the initial gauze in place for a few hours to allow the clot to form. Afterward, change the gauze as needed.
  • Avoid Straws: Do not use straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.
  • Avoid Spitting: Spitting creates pressure in the mouth, which can dislodge the clot.
  • Nose Blowing and Sneezing: If a tooth was removed from the upper half of the mouth, avoid blowing your nose or sneezing, as this can create pressure that may dislodge the blood clot.
  • No Smoking: Smoking creates pressure similar to using a straw. It is crucial to avoid smoking during the first couple of days while the blood clot forms.
  • Cold Compresses: To dull pain, apply an ice pack or a towel-wrapped bag of ice to the area for 10–20 minutes.
  • Elevate the Head: Use extra pillows to stay elevated while sleeping. Lying too flat can allow blood to pool and prolong healing time.



Medications: Take any prescribed medications as directed by your dentist, especially for complex extractions.


Following these guidelines ensures a smooth initial healing phase and sets the stage for continued recovery.


 Aftercare Following Tooth Extraction

After the Blood Clot Forms

Once a blood clot has securely formed in the socket, it’s vital to keep it in place and follow additional steps for oral hygiene to prevent complications.


Tips for Aftercare Between the Third and Tenth Day

  • Saline Rinses: When the blood clot is securely in place, gently rinse your mouth with a warm saline solution (a pinch of salt in warm water). This helps kill bacteria and prevent infections.
  • Brushing and Flossing: Continue brushing and flossing as usual, but avoid the extraction site. The saline solution and any medicated mouthwash your dentist recommends will help keep the area clean.
  • Soft Foods Diet: Stick to soft foods that do not require much chewing and are unlikely to get trapped in the socket. Good options include soups, yogurt, and applesauce. Avoid hard, crunchy, or seeded foods like toast and chips.


Aftercare for Multiple Extractions

In cases where multiple teeth are extracted, especially on different sides of the mouth, aftercare can be more challenging. Surgeons often recommend general anesthesia for these procedures, and you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.



  • Special Instructions: Follow specific instructions from your dentist, which may include fasting before surgery.
  • Clotting Aids: Dentists may use natural clotting aids in the extraction sites, which the body absorbs over time.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.


Aftercare for Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Due to their complexity, wisdom teeth extractions often require more extensive aftercare. The surgery typically involves the removal of multiple teeth under general anesthesia.



  • Extended Healing Time: The healing process for wisdom teeth can be longer, so plan for more recovery time.
  • Dissolvable Stitches and Clotting Aids: Dentists may use these techniques to promote healing.
  • Additional Tips: Follow any tips your dentist provides to aid recovery.



Considerations for Children


Children requiring tooth extractions are usually put under general anesthesia to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free during the procedure. The aftercare process is similar to that for adults, but parents or caregivers must monitor the child’s healing closely.


Monitoring Symptoms: Pay attention to pain, bleeding, and oral health.


Home Remedies for Pain Management

Experiencing pain and swelling after a tooth extraction is common. Here are some home remedies to alleviate discomfort:



  • NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen and naproxen) can help reduce swelling and pain.
  • Ice Packs: Apply a towel-wrapped ice pack to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time.
  • Saltwater Rinses: Use saltwater rinses daily to kill bacteria and reduce pain and swelling.


When to See the Dentist

If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your dentist immediately:

  • Severe Pain and Swelling: Pain and swelling that worsen over time.
  • Persistent Bleeding: Bleeding that doesn’t improve.
  • High Fever: A sign of possible infection.
  • Nausea or Vomiting: May indicate complications.
  • Severe Pain Radiating to the Ear: This could be a sign of infection or dry socket.
  • Foul-Tasting or Smelling Discharge: Indicates possible infection.


Summary

Tooth extraction removes problematic teeth to prevent future complications. Proper aftercare is vital to promote healing and protect the extraction site. Most simple extractions heal within 7 to 10 days. If you experience worsening symptoms, consult your dentist for further evaluation and treatment.


Following these guidelines and staying vigilant about oral health can ensure a smoother recovery process and prevent complications. Always consult your dentist for personalized advice and care during your healing journey.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does it take for a tooth extraction to heal fully?

    Complete healing typically takes 3-4 weeks. Initial healing occurs in the first week, with the socket closing over the next few weeks.


  • What can I do to speed up the healing process?

    Follow your dentist's instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, eat soft foods, stay hydrated, and avoid smoking and alcohol. It is crucial to keep the extraction site clean and free from irritants.


  • When should I contact my dentist during the healing process?

    Contact your dentist if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, signs of infection (such as increased swelling, redness, or discharge), or if the blood clot dislodges (dry socket).



  • Can I brush my teeth after a tooth extraction?

    You can brush your teeth, but avoid the extraction site for the first few days. Use gentle, circular motions and rinse your mouth with saline solution instead of mouthwash.

Sea Urchin, Cauliflower and Toast

By Dr. Michael Chan • February 13, 2024
Introduction The inspiration behind this dish came from Michelin-starred chef Carlos Cracco’s sea urchin and coffee risotto. I was watching a TV program called “In Search of Perfection: Reinventing Kitchen Classics”, and I was intrigued. I had a crack at the unique combination and what a match made in heaven! The coffee itself adds a roasted note, which adds a wonderful complexity to this recipe. While the preparation may be simple, the secret behind this dish is in the quality of the ingredients. Ingredients Wild sea urchin (any Japanese market such as Tokyo Central, Mitsuwa, or Nijiya market will do) 2 cauliflower florets sliced approx. 0.5 cm (only flat ends) High quality white bread (my favorite is the white bread from the Japanese market, Mitsuwa) 9-12 salmon roe per serving 0.5 tsp instant coffee powder Generous knob of unsalted butter Dill Steps In a nonstick pan, heat butter and brown both sides of the cauliflower slices (about 3-4 per serving) until tender with a toothpick. Sprinkle the coffee powder delicately and cook for a further 20 seconds. Season to taste and set aside. Remove crust from bread and slice in rectangular shapes (width should be slightly narrower than the width of the cauliflower florets). We want the edges of the cauliflower to slightly cover the bread when plating. In another non-stick pan, melt the butter and toast both sides of the bread. Set aside on a paper towel to absorb excess fat. Plating Place a small dollop of soft butter in the center of plate followed by the toasted bread. This will ensure a stable foundation. Arrange cauliflower in the same direction along the piece of bread followed by the urchin. Urchin is extremely delicate and can easily bruise. Use a small teaspoon to arrange. On a small teaspoon, arrange 3 sets of salmon roe evenly spaced on top of the urchin. Please note plating in odd numbers are typically more esthetically pleasing. Followed by a small piece of dill on each salmon roe arrangement. Enjoy as a starter!
An Image of Dr. Chan's Beer Battered Chicken Nugetts

Beer Battered Chicken Nuggets

By Dr. Michael Chan • December 28, 2023
McDonalds chicken nuggets have always been a childhood favorite of my brother's and mine. We would try to work out with each ones were dark meat, and they were normally horseshoe shaped. I created this recipe shortly after I was happy for the batter I make for fish and chips. The nostalgia always gets me and I hope you enjoy this dish as much as I do!

Prawn Cocktail

By Dr. Michael Chan • October 23, 2023
Ingredients 1-2 baby gem or butter lettuce 1 pound of jumbo shrimp with shells Finely chopped dill (to taste) Lemon (to taste) Kewpie sesame dressing (to taste) Shiso dressing (to taste) Tabasco (to taste) 2 ripe avocados Steps The shrimp In a large non-stick pan, heat olive oil until smoking, add the shrimp and a pinch of salt. Color both sides until golden orange. When the shrimp are ready, allow them out onto a cutting board to cool. De-shell the shrimp and cut into 3 to 4 pieces. Taste and check seasoning. Keep the shells and infuse in fish or chicken stock for risotto. Place in a bowl and add sesame dressing, dill, Tabasco, and lemon. Avocado mousse Peel, deseed, and blend avocados until smooth. If you do not have a blend, crush the avocado with a fork and pass through a strainer or fine sieve. Add a squeeze of lemon and a pinch of salt. Taste. The salad Toss the shredded lettuce with a generous amount of the shiso dressing. Plating Using a medium to large ring mold, spread the avocado mousse evenly in one layer. Check the seasoning with the shrimp once more and line the next layer with the shrimp. Pack a good amount of the salad as the final layer. Carefully lift the ring mold and serve immediately. Alternative Shrimp Cocktail Wrap Instead of the avocado mousse, simply cut the avocados into cubes, mix them with the shrimp, and serve in hearts of lettuce leaves.

Red Wine Braised Short Rib

By Dr. Michael Chan • June 14, 2023
Ingredients A pack of short ribs typically contains 4-5 pieces (Boneless preferred) Handful of coarsely chopped celery (roughly the same quantity as onions and carrots) ½ yellow onion (medium) coarsely chopped 2 coarsely chopped medium carrots 3 cloves of coarsely chopped garlic 1/3 – 1/2 bottle of red wine (Trader Joe’s Tribunal, Phantom, 7 Deadly Sins Zinfandel – something that is really bold) Knorr chicken or beef stock pot / granules 1-2 sprigs of rosemary and generous handful of thyme tied together with butcher’s twine All-purpose flour (enough to coat the short ribs) Approx. 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (enough to coat the vegetables until everything turns red) Salt (to taste) Pepper (to taste) Steps Pre-heat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Dust the short ribs with all-purpose flour. Heat a non-stick pan, add olive oil, brown all sides of the short ribs, and set aside. Heat an oven safe pot (preferably a cast iron one) with olive oil and sweat the garlic, carrots, celery, and onions (approx. 6-8 min). Add tomato paste enough to coat all the vegetables and cook out for about 2 minutes. Add the short ribs and herbs. Add red wine (enough to submerge all the ingredients) and reduce until alcohol has evaporated. Add beef or chicken stock enough to submerge all ingredients by about 0.5 inch. Bring to a simmer. Check seasoning (should be underseasoned because the reduction will intensify all the flavors). Place the pot in the oven for 2.5 -3 hours. Check seasoning and further reduce until very rich. Sauce should be thick and coat the spoon. Garnish - roasted parsnip chips Ingredients 1 parsnip peeled (like ribbons) Steps Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In salted boiling water, cook parsnips for one minute, drain and pat dry on paper towels. Place in the fridge for 30 minutes (Tip: The air in the fridge is very dry, and it is a great way to further draw out moisture allowing the product to be extra crispy at the end). Line a baking tray with parchment paper, spread out parsnips on a single layer, drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and crispy. Serve immediately. Additional Notes This dish should be left overnight and served the following day. It works wonderfully with pasta that has been lightly tossed in olive oil or egg yolk (like a carbonara). Naan bread, short grain rice, or mashed potatoes also work.

Tagliatelle Al Ragu

By Dr. Michael Chan • June 14, 2023
Ingredients (Serves 3) ½ finely diced sweet onion (approx. equal quantities of onion, celery, and carrot) 2 finely diced celery sticks 1 finely diced carrot 250g minced pork (Whole Foods or Bristol Farms sweet Italian sausage is my favorite – approx. 2 , remove casing and crumble) 250g minced beef 25 mL of milk 2 tablespoons of tomato puree 150 mL of passata 200 mL of chicken stock 250g of pasta Parmesan or pecorino to taste Steps Heat olive oil in large Dutch oven (any cast iron pot will work nicely) and fry minced beef and pork. Add a pinch of salt to assist in drawing out the moisture. When golden brown, drain fat, and set aside (Tip: Water will first be removed from the mince and the meat will begin to brown only when fat has been rendered. This will take approx. 5-7 mins). In the same pot, add more olive oil and sweat onion, celery, and carrot until soft. Add a pinch of salt to assist in drawing out moisture. Add mince back into the pot. Add the tomato puree until all the ingredients are nicely coated and cook for about 2 min. Add passata followed with milk. Simmer for 3 minutes. Deglaze pot with chicken stock. Check seasoning (it should be slightly under seasoned as flavors will intensify after simmering). Heat oven to 275 degrees and simmer gently for 1.5 -2 hours until reduced and thickened. It should be very rich. Check seasoning once more and add salt and pepper to taste. Simmer more on stove top if necessary. In a separate pot, boil water and season generously with salt (how the water is seasoned will dictate the taste of the pasta). The recommended time for the egg fettucine is extremely al dente. Drain when cooked to taste. Combine sauce with pasta, shave parmesan or pecorino, and enjoy! (Tip: If you want to go super fancy, grate parmesan into a bowl. Sprinkle loosely into a non-stick pan on medium heat in a web pattern, remove when a light golden brown, and allow to dry on a cooling rack)
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