Excessive tooth decay, tooth infection, and crowding can all require a tooth extraction. Those who get braces may need one or two teeth removed to provide room for their other teeth as they shift into place.

On children, may be required when baby teeth fail to fall out before permanent teeth come in. Additionally, those who are undergoing chemotherapy or are about to have an organ transplant may need compromised teeth removed in order to keep their mouth healthy.

Our dentists will never recommend extraction if there is a less invasive treatment option. Make sure you understand why extraction is recommended and what the procedure involves for you or your child.

If you have just had a tooth extracted or will have one extracted soon, there are a few tips you should follow to achieve a quick recovery after tooth extraction.

How long does a tooth extraction take to heal?

Typically, the healing time for an extraction site varies from patient to patient. The first 24 hours after extraction are crucial and determine the healing of the extraction site. After this period, patients can resume their physical activities.

The extraction of a tooth leaves a cavity called the alveolus in which bleeding occurs. This blood will allow a clot to form that little by little will become scar tissue, which will guarantee the rapid recovery of the gums. Also, bone development will occur over the next few months.

After a tooth extraction, it is normal for you to feel some discomfort in the area for a few days. Typically, this discomfort disappears completely in a few days. Its intensity depends on the difficulty and complexity of the procedure. Your dentist will likely prescribe anti-inflammatories or antibiotics. In this case, it is very important to follow the directions of the prescribed medication to get relief.

To speed up the recovery process it is vital to give yourself proper care after tooth extraction, maintain proper oral hygiene, and take precautions to allow the extraction site’s rapid healing. Thus, you can return to normal as soon as possible.

After the intervention, in addition to feeling pain, it is normal for the wound to bleed for at least 24 hours. For this reason, a gauze pad will be applied that should be kept tight for about 20 minutes and should be changed as long as the bleeding continues.

If the dentist had to cut to proceed with the extraction, the wound will have been sutured, and therefore, once healed, the sutures must be removed.

To facilitate recovery, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Inform your dentist if the bleeding does not decrease.
• Apply ice to the cheek to reduce inflammation.
• Avoid harsh rinsing with water or mouthwash.
• Brush the teeth after each meal but avoiding passing the brush near the extraction site.
• Resist the urge to touch or push the extraction site with your tongue or fingers.
• Avoid hot foods and drinks as the heat may dissolve the blood clot.
• Avoid smoking for at least the first 24 hours.
• Keep your head elevated when lying down, this reduces the risk of bleeding.
• It is advisable not to take part in intense, strenuous physical activities while the recovery lasts.
• Follow a soft diet until the healing process has finished.

Likewise, to ensure postoperative success, it is important to follow the following guidelines:

• Avoid smoking, consuming alcoholic beverages or irritating substances, and the use of mouthwashes with a high alcohol content for the next 72 hours after the extraction.
• Check your blood sugar levels regularly. Good blood sugar control will also help your body fight any other bacterial or fungal infections in your mouth and help relieve dry mouth caused by diabetes.
• Use your diabetes-related medications as directed; changing to a healthier diet and even exercising more can help.
• Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft brush.
• If you wear any type of denture, clean it every day.
• Visit your dentist for regular checkups.