How Long Does Simple Extraction Take to Heal?
Tooth extraction is a frequent and common procedure with very minimal risk. You can expect a normal recovery period, at which time there might be some slight discomfort and sensitivity with chewing.
Tooth Extraction Recovery and What You Can Expect
Your tooth extraction recovery and healing will vary slightly depending on the location of the tooth in your mouth and if there is more than one tooth being extracted. There will be some standard recovery expectations you will have before your procedure begins. The simple tooth extraction recovery and your heeling timeline will still be quite basic.
Simple Extraction Versus Surgical Extraction
It is beneficial to understand the two different types of tooth extractions, which are a simple extraction and a surgical extraction. A simple extraction is quite common and is when the tooth has completely emerged through your gumline, and a surgical extraction would be required if the tooth is partially or entirely impacted under the surface of the gums.
The Recovery Timeline After a Tooth Extraction
The time it will take you to recover from your tooth extraction can range from just a few days to more than a week, depending on the type of tooth extraction and the total number of teeth being removed. A simple tooth extraction is noticeably less invasive, so the recovery and healing time is also much quicker and faster. Most often, you will be able to make a complete and healthy recovery close to within just two or three days. For a more invasive surgical extraction, it may take around a week, or even longer, to reach a full and complete recovery. It will also take a few weeks for your gums to heal completely.
The Initial Symptoms After Your Tooth Extraction
The tooth extraction itself causes remarkably little if any discomfort because a local anesthesia is usually administered to the immediate area. Following the procedure, there might be some minor discomfort in the affected area. The surrounding gums can also become swollen and tender. Any mild discomfort should be more than tolerable with just some over-the-counter pain medication and with the help of a home remedy, like using a cold compress. If the pain or swelling lasts beyond the first week or progresses and becomes unpleasant, it is best to notify and share with your dentist.
How to Minimize the Discomfort After a Tooth Extraction
It is both important and quite beneficial to be extremely careful while brushing or flossing near the extracted tooth site. Your dentist may even recommend not brushing whatsoever near the affected area for a day or two. It is also advantageous to use mouthwash as directed to keep your mouth clean and also reduce the risk of any oral infection. You should also avoid smoking or tobacco use and limit intensive physical activity until you have made a complete recovery. There might be some discomfort during your recovery, so it will also be strongly advised to maintain a soft food diet and drink just water.