Sometimes, for various reasons, dental providers recommend treatment that involves the removal of a baby or permanent tooth. Suppose your dentist has suggested having one or more of your teeth extracted. In that case, you might be wondering what this procedure entails, including how long it takes to heal.
Recovery Time After a Tooth Extraction
If your dentist removes your tooth non-surgically, you will likely be back to yourself after a day or two. On the other hand, a surgical extraction may take two to three days for you to return to normal. Your dentist may prescribe painkillers or recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever during this time.
You should also be aware that it may take up to one or two weeks for the socket to heal. During this time, you may experience mild discomfort. Stick to softer foods for this time, especially in the case of a surgical extraction, which will be important in maintaining your comfort. You should also be careful to limit strenuous physical activity during this time as it can cause additional bleeding.
Can I Reduce Healing Time After Getting a Tooth Pulled?
Whether you had a simple or surgical tooth extraction, following your dentist's instructions is the key to recovering quickly. You should be sure to:
- Take Medications as Directed: Your dentist may prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infections. Always take antibiotics exactly as described, including finishing the prescribed doses as directed.
- Keep the Area Clean as Directed by Your Dentist: Keeping the extraction site clean will help prevent infection and encourage healing.
- Eat Soft Foods: Talk to your dentist about how long you should wait until resuming your regular diet.
- Don't Drink Using a Straw, Smoke, or Vape: Smoking or drinking with a straw can create a suction that may compromise the blood clot that naturally forms at the site of your tooth extraction. As such, it's imperative to avoid drinking from a straw or smoking/vaping for a few days following your extraction.
- Avoid Strenuous Activity: Avoid exercise and other strenuous activities for the first few days following your extraction. The exertion could increase the risk of bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tooth Extractions
How are Teeth Extracted?
Your dentist can pull or surgically remove your tooth. Either way, they will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they will use special instruments to loosen and remove your tooth and its root. However, if surgical removal is necessary, patients are typically given IV sedation.
Should I Get My Tooth Replaced?
It's crucial to understand that replacing a missing tooth isn't just cosmetic. Even though leaving a space where your extracted tooth was might be economical, it can negatively impact your oral health. Unfortunately, jaw bone loss after an extraction is common if you don't replace the missing tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or other restorative method soon after the extraction.
Why? Because the roots of the surrounding teeth may shift or encroach on the empty space left by the extracted tooth. You may potentially need orthodontic treatment if you wait until later to have a dental implant placed. Getting your missing tooth restored as soon as possible can protect your appearance and your overall oral health.
Questions about Tooth Extractions? Contact Smile Shack Today
Having a tooth pulled can be a bit daunting. Rest assured, the team at Smile Shack is here to answer all your questions and help you feel at ease. Call us today at 631-928-7500 or reach out to us online to schedule an appointment.