Healing After Tooth Extraction

Thanks to continued advancements in the dental industry a Belvidere tooth extraction can be surprisingly not bad at all. Your healing procedure still reflects you. The healing time will be influenced by your oral health, the location of the extraction, your genetic characteristics, your medical condition, your age, and your personal habits such as smoking.

Some Common Causes for a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth and can be performed for assorted reasons, such as:

  • Damaged Teeth- If you have a damaged or broken tooth that your dentist confirms is beyond repair, they will recommend its removal.
  • Tooth Decay- If your tooth has decayed and can no longer be treated with a filling, root canal, or crown, it may be in your best interests for your oral health to have it extracted.
  • Periodontal Disease- When plaque collects on your teeth the damaging bacteria infects the gums causing gum disease. Its severe form is called periodontal disease, and it can erode your gum tissue and bone. This will cause your teeth to loosen and potentially require an extraction.
  • Crowded Teeth- If you have a smaller jaw that does not accommodate all your teeth, or if you have extra teeth, or if you have a tooth growing into the tooth next to it, your dentist may extract a tooth to eliminate overcrowding.

What To Do After a Tooth Extraction

The first two days after your tooth extraction is when the most attention is needed. Here are some suggestions to help with the healing:

  • Leave the gauze your dentist placed in your mouth for a few hours to allow the blood clot to form. Then you can change it if needed.
  • Raise your head slightly when lying down.
  • Rest for at least 24 hours after the tooth extraction.
  • Avoid rinsing your mouth right away because it can dislodge the clot that is forming.
  • Avoid spitting or drinking with a straw.
  • Avoid hot liquids and alcohol.
  • Try not to blow your nose or sneeze.
  • Do not smoke or use any tobacco products for at least three days after the extraction.
  • Take pain relievers if prescribed, they can reduce inflammation.
  • Reduce or minimize any swelling with an ice pack on your cheek for 20 minutes at a time.

How Long Does Discomfort Last Following a Tooth Extraction

You can expect some bleeding for up to 24 hours after your extraction, and you do not want to do anything to disturb the blood clot that forms in the vacant socket.

For most people, the discomfort tends to decrease after the third day. After about a week, granulation tissue forms, which then protects the extraction site until bone can form. You may have a follow-up appointment after two weeks with your dentist to assess your healing and your successful recovery.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms after your tooth extraction, you should contact your dentist:

  • If the discomfort after your tooth extraction increases rather than decreases.
  • If the gum swelling after your tooth extraction gets worse with time.
  • If your blood does not clot and your bleeding does not improve, a condition called a dry socket.
  • If you experience a high fever, nausea, or vomiting.
  • If you have severe pain that spreads to your ear.
  • Or if you have drainage from the wound that tastes or smells foul.

Cost of Tooth Extraction