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