How Long Does An Extracted Tooth Take To Heal – What To Expect?

Have you had a tooth extracted? If so, how long will it take for your extraction site to heal? The good news is that, in most cases, healing takes place within a few days to a week. However, you can do a few things to help the process. 

This blog post will discuss what to expect after tooth extraction and how long it typically takes for the area to heal. We’ll also provide some tips on speeding up the healing process. So if you’re wondering how long it will take for your mouth to heal after an extraction, read on!

Tooth Extraction Healing Stage

The amount of time it takes for a tooth extraction to heal fully varies depending on where the tooth was extracted and the technique used, but it usually takes seven to ten days. Healing may take two to three weeks for more difficult extractions.

The First 24 Hours

Blood clotting starts the day after the extraction. The first 24 hours are also the time when swelling peaks. Light bleeding, discomfort, and sometimes mild pain are common side effects. 

On the first day following a tooth extraction, healing starts gradually. Recovery from a tooth extraction should proceed naturally as long as there are no unusual occurrences and you adhere to your doctor’s instructions.

After the first day, patients should exercise extra caution to avoid disturbing the clot formed in the open socket. This could result in a painful side effect called a dry socket. Don’t use a straw for drinking, and refrain from brushing the area where your tooth was pulled out.

Expectations 1-2 Days After Tooth Extraction

24 to 48 hours have passed since the tooth extraction at this stage. By this time, the socket has developed a clot, and the platelets inside the socket have started to produce chemical substances that will hasten the healing process. The swelling will begin to go down.

What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction in 3 Days

After around three days, the empty tooth socket will have mostly healed. There shouldn’t be any more bleeding and minimal swelling. Although there may still be some soreness or tenderness, there shouldn’t be any pain.

1 Week Post Extraction

After 7 to 10 days, your blood clot should be fully developed and established. Ask your dentist if you need to schedule a follow-up appointment if you experience discomfort or bleeding during this healing period. If you had stitches put in and they weren’t dissolving, they would be taken out.

2 Weeks Post Extraction

The sockets will be almost fully healed after around 14 days. At the extraction site, the tissue is very vascular and sensitive. Avoid overbrushing this tissue and overeating close to the extraction site. You could develop an infection or tear the newly formed gum tissue layer. At the extraction site, the tissue is very vascular and sensitive. Avoid overbrushing this tissue and overeating close to the extraction site.

3+ Weeks Post Extraction

The mending process is nearly finished after 3–4 weeks. While you might still experience some soreness where the tooth was extracted, there shouldn’t be any significant discomfort or bleeding. Simply be careful not to allow food or debris to accumulate in your empty socket at this stage by brushing and flossing thoroughly and, if directed to do so, by rinsing the so at the extraction socket to clear away debris.

Understanding the Tooth Extraction Healing Stages

When working with a trustworthy and experienced dental office like Palatine Dental Associates, the recovery process following tooth extraction need not be difficult. Your best action after a tooth extraction is always to follow your doctor’s recommendations. At Palatine Dental Associates, we have extensive training and knowledge in many dental and oral health areas.

Contact us at Palatine Dental Associates if you need to undergo tooth extractions in Palatine, IL