Tooth Extraction Recovery: Tips for a Speedy Healing Process
Is Tooth Extraction a Necessary Procedure?
Tooth extractions in Rosedale Dental Care are dental procedures that remove natural teeth from the jawbone. Usually, dentists remove problematic teeth to preserve the rest of the oral cavity.
However, it is not always the case that a Family dentist in Brampton will eliminate a problematic tooth. In unique instances, you may need to lose a healthy tooth for the sake of the rest. Some factors that usually necessitate tooth removal are:
- Dental treatments like root canals cannot effectively restore severe tooth decay. Instead, dentists recommend extraction to prevent the spread of infection.
- Impacted wisdom teeth or third molars – as the last teeth to erupt in the human mouth, they often do not have enough space for emerging or developing properly. Impacted wisdom teeth remain wholly or partially stuck under the gums, causing pain, infection, and damage to adjacent teeth.
- Periodontal disease – the advanced stages of gum disease can lead to premature tooth loss. Therefore, a dentist may pre-empt an extraction if the tooth has already become too loose due to bone loss and cannot be saved.
- Dental trauma that leads to severe damage or fractures is usually common in sports injuries, accidents, or other forms of trauma.
- Orthodontic treatment – you may need a tooth extraction as part of orthodontic treatment to correct severe crowding or misalignment of teeth. Extracting one or more teeth creates extra space in the jawbone for proper alignment during braces or other orthodontic procedures.
- Malpositioned or supernumerary teeth – you may need tooth removal when you have teeth in abnormal positions or extra teeth that develop beyond the normal set. Extraction will help to maintain proper alignment and prevent complications.
- Failed root canal treatment – if the initial treatment was a root canal that failed to eliminate infection or restore the tooth’s health, extraction may be considered to prevent further complications.
How Long Does It Take To Heal After Tooth Extraction?
Generally, complete healing of the extraction site can take several weeks to several months. This period varies depending on several factors, including:
- The complexity of the extraction
- Your overall health
- How well you follow post-operative care instructions
However, it usually takes about 7 to 10 days for the initial healing to occur. The general timeline of the healing process entails the following:
- The initial clotting in the socket – during the first 24 hours for the bleeding to subside.
- Peak swelling around days 2 and 3 allows for a gradual decrease. Any pain or discomfort should also begin to improve.
- Between days 3 to 7, the extraction site may appear pink and tender. The initial clot will start to dissolve and be replaced by granulation tissue, which is an integral part of the healing process.
- At days 7 to 10, the soft tissue in the extraction site continues to heal as the gum tissue closes over the socket. The majority of the discomfort and swelling should have subsided by this point.
- In 2 weeks to 1 month, the extraction area may still be slightly tender, even as the gum tissue further closes over the socket.
How To Heal and Recover Quickly After Tooth Extraction
The speed of recovering from a nearby tooth removal varies from person to person. However, some general guidelines can promote healing and a quicker recovery period.
- Follow any specific post-operative instructions your family dentist in Brampton will provide after treatment.
- Control bleeding until a blood clot forms in the socket. To control bleeding, gently bite on a clean gauze or a moist tea bag.
- Manage swelling – although some swelling is normal after a tooth extraction, it should be within your control. Apply an ice pack to a cold compress during the first 24 hours to reduce swelling. After the first day of cold compressing, switch to warm compresses to promote blood circulation.
- Take pain medication as prescribed in the dental clinic. Even over-the-counter pain relievers can help to manage pain and discomfort.
- Stick to a soft diet for the first few days after the extraction. Avoid hot, spicy, hard foods that irritate the extraction site. While at it, chew foods away from the extraction site.
- Rinse with warm salt water to keep the mouth clean and promote healing. Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwash during the first few days.
- Avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 to 48 hours, as it can increase bleeding and swelling.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol for the first few days after the extraction, as they can increase the risk of complications.