Tooth extraction is a relatively simple and common procedure with minimal risks. However, you should expect a normal recovery period, during which time there may be some slight discomfort and difficulty with chewing.
Tooth Extraction Recovery and What You Can Expect
The tooth extraction recovery process will vary based upon the location of the tooth in your mouth and the exact number of teeth that are being extracted. There are certain common recovery expectations you can have before the procedure begins. The tooth extraction recovery and the heeling timeline are fairly basic.
Simple Extraction Versus Surgical Extraction
It is first beneficial to understand the two different kinds of tooth extractions, which are a simple extraction and a surgical extractions. A simple extraction is all that is usually necessary for teeth that are completely and fully emerged through your gumline, and a surgical extraction might be required for any teeth that are either partially or entirely impacted under the surface of the gums.
The Recovery Timeline After a Tooth Extraction
The time it takes for you to recover from your tooth extraction can range from just a few days to possibly more than a week, depending on the specific kind of extraction and the number of teeth that needed to be removed. A simple extraction is far less invasive, so the recovery and healing time is much quicker and faster. Usually, most patients are able to make a healthy recovery close to completely all the way within just two or three days. For a more invasive and involved surgical extraction, it might take around a week, or even more, to reach a complete and full recovery. It will also take a few weeks for your gums to heal fully and completely.
The Initial Symptoms After Your Tooth Extraction
The actual extraction itself causes truly little or any discomfort because 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 might become swollen and tender as well. Any pain should be more than tolerable with some mild pain medication and with the help of home remedies like a cold compress. If the pain or swelling continues beyond the first week or progresses and becomes intolerable, it will be best to notify and share with your dentist.
How to Minimize the Discomfort After a Tooth Extraction
It is important and beneficial to be incredibly careful when brushing and flossing around the extracted tooth site. Your dentist may even recommend not brushing in the affected area for a day or two. It is also essential to use mouthwash as directed to keep your mouth clean and reduce any risk of an oral infection. You should also avoid smoking or tobacco use and also limit intensive physical activity until a full recovery is made. Since there might be some discomfort during your recovery, it will also be helpful to eat a soft diet and drink just water.