What Is the Healing Process Like After a Tooth Extraction?

Has your dentist suggested a tooth extraction? Are you worried about how long it will take to heal? One way to prepare yourself and ensure a healthy healing process is to educate yourself. The more you know, the better. Do not panic! You do not need to know all the nitty-gritty. Just learn about the healing timeline, aftercare, and precautions, and you are good to go.
If your procedure goes well, you can expect the pain to start subsiding by day 3 of the extraction; your body will begin to naturally heal the wound at this point.

The Procedure for Tooth Extraction

The process of tooth removal is simple; it involves completely removing the teeth from its socket. The extraction is done for various reasons, primarily due to tooth decay or in the case of a wisdom tooth. The entire process takes a few minutes in most cases. Your periodontists inject a local anesthetic, and the patient feels nothing as they loosen the tooth before pulling it out. They will then place a gauze over the socket to prevent blood loss and encourage blood clotting. Then, the patient receives some instructions on aftercare and is sent home.

The Healing Process After a Tooth Extraction

Immediately After the Extraction

There is no pain immediately after the surgery. However, once the anesthetic begins to wear off, the wound area will feel slightly tender and, in some cases, swollen. Within the first 24 hours, the bleeding will slowly stop, and blood clots will begin to form on the site of extraction; this is a good sign. The best thing to do at this stage is rest. After 24 hours, the pain and the swelling will subside, and more rigorous healing will begin.

The Healing Begins

After a day, your wounds will experience reattachment, and new gums will start to grow. The blood clot is made of platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells, and it will begin to attract other healthy cells. Together, they will bind the tissues and encourage the wound to heal. This process is not visible to the naked eye.

Ways to Expedite the Healing Process after Tooth Extraction

The human body is extraordinary and does pretty well to heal on its own. However, we can help it heal faster with proper aftercare.

• Do not remove the gauze that your periodontists have placed right away. It stops bleeding and encourages blood clotting. After a few hours, you will be able to change it out.
• Wait for at least 24 hours before rinsing your mouth, as it can wash away the blood clots. Spitting and drinking should also be avoided, as well as the use of a straw.
• Avoid sneezing and blowing your nose.
• Smoking or ingesting tobacco products should be completely avoided.
• Take the pain relievers prescribed by your periodontist.
• An ice pack on your cheek can help with swelling.
• After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm saltwater.
• Avoid brushing directly over the extracted wound for a week or two, at least.

If you feel your tooth is decaying or your teeth are overcrowding, make sure to pay a visit to periodontists Dr. Karbakhsch and Dr. Katafuchi in Tacoma.

Book an appointment here or give us a call at (253) 752-6336, and we will save you a slot.