Tooth extraction is one of the most common oral surgery procedures in the US. Over 5 million Americans have their wisdom teeth removed every year.
There are other reasons why people have tooth extractions. Dentists will recommend this procedure if there are signs of an infection or tooth decay. Data shows that 90% of Americans have cavities. 25% will leave this untreated.
The idea of having a tooth pulled out sounds daunting. People often think of tooth removal as a painful and difficult process. It might have been that way before but things have changed. New technology and enhanced anesthetics have made extractions easier. It has also made the healing process go faster.
How Do Tooth Extractions Heal?
Tooth extractions have different stages of healing. The process can take as much as six months to finish. Here’s an overview of the various stages.
- Immediate Post-Extraction
The first 24 hours after a tooth extraction is critical. This is when the area needs the most attention and aftercare.
A blood clot forms in the socket of the removed tooth right after extraction. It might look disturbing but clotting is crucial. It stops the bleeding and jumpstarts the healing process. The patient might experience mild discomfort. There might even be some initial swelling. This is a normal inflammatory response.
- Early Healing Stage
The first three days after extraction will see the blood clot stabilizing. The patient will start seeing a white tissue forming over the socket. This is also called granulation tissue. Collagen, blood vessels, and white blood cells comprise this protective layer. The tissue is a sign that the tooth extraction is healing well.
- Middle Stage Healing
The patient will see a reduction in the swelling of the gum or socket from days 4 to 7. Any discomfort or pain felt will start subsiding as well.
This stage is also the start of epithelialization. This is when epithelial cells begin replacing the granulation tissue. The cells are now forming new gum tissue over the socket.
- Late-Stage Healing
The patient will see a lot of changes in weeks 2 to 4. Ossification begins at this stage. This is when the body starts the bone formation process. The extracted tooth socket will grow a new bone.
The gum tissue around the tooth extraction site continues to mature. It will also begin closing over the socket.
- Complete Healing
The healing process lasts anywhere from two to six months. There will be bone remodeling during this stage. The new bone will start aligning with the surrounding bone structures.
Patients often have full gum recovery in six months. The socket looks seamless by this time. It blends with the rest of the mouth.
Top 4 Tips for a Smooth Recovery
There are simple precautions a patient can take to ensure a fast and smooth recovery.
- Follow Post-Op Instructions: Dentists always provide specific instructions after dental extractions. Patients should follow them to the letter. This will ensure optimal healing.
- Manage the Pain and Swelling: There’s no need to suffer discomfort or pain after the procedure. Dentists do prescribe pain relievers. Patients can also use over-the-counter pain medication. They can also apply an ice pack to the affected area. Patients should do this for 15 to 20 minutes during the first two days.
- Always Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Avoid brushing near the tooth extraction site. They should avoid the area for the first 24 hours. They can rinse their mouths with a saltwater solution after one day. This helps keep the area clean. It also reduces the risk of infection.
- Choose the Right Food: Soft foods are ideal after tooth removal. Patients should avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods. These could irritate the extraction site. It’s important to keep hydrated but patients shouldn’t use straws. The suction can dislodge the blood clot.
Creating Beautiful and Happy Smiles
Having strong and healthy teeth is easy now. All you need to do is visit Dentistry of Orlando. We’re one of the premier dental clinics in Orlando, Florida. Our company is always committed to giving the highest level of dental service. We have the skills and experience to make this happen.Our company uses the latest technology to help create beautiful and happy smiles. We specialize in tooth extractions and dental cleanings. We also offer cosmetic dentistry procedures. You can call our Avalon office at (407) 249-9292. You can reach our clinic at Hansel Avenue at (407) 851-5555. You can also book an appointment here.
