How Long Does a Surgical Extraction Take to Heal?
Recovery from a surgical extraction can take a bit more time and care compared to a simple extraction. The healing process varies from person to person, but having an idea of what to expect can help prepare you for a quick and smooth recovery.
Immediate Aftercare
Right after a surgical extraction, a blood clot will begin to form in the empty tooth socket. This clot is essential for healing because it helps protect the bone and nerve endings in the area. Dentists typically place a piece of gauze over the extraction site and have the patient bite down gently to stop any bleeding. It is important to keep the gauze in place for about 30 to 45 minutes or as instructed.
Pain and Swelling
It is normal to experience some pain, swelling, and discomfort in the first 20 to 48 hours after the procedure. The pain is usually the worst it will be during this time and then begins to gradually lessen. Dentists often recommend over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage discomfort. In some cases, a stronger painkiller may be prescribed. To help reduce swelling and inflammation, an ice pack can be applied to the cheek near the extraction site.
Proper Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is crucial for preventing infection during recovery, but it is imperative to be gentle around the extraction site. Dentists will usually advise against brushing the affected area for the first 24 hours and instead recommend rinsing with a warm saltwater solution. This will keep the extraction site clean and help to reduce inflammation.
Soft Food Diet
For the first few days following a surgical extraction, you should stick to a soft food diet to avoid damaging the extraction site. An example of a soft food diet will include scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies. Avoid spicy, crunchy, hard, and chewy foods as these can irritate the healing tissue and delay recovery.
Staying hydrated is also important, but it is recommended to drink room temperature beverages and not use a straw. Extreme temperatures can lead to pain and swelling, and the sucking motion used while drinking from a straw can dislodge the blood clot, leading to painful dry socket.
Monitor Your Recovery
While mild pain and swelling are common, it is important to watch for signs of more serious complications. Contact your dental provider if you notice severe pain that does not subside, excessive bleeding, foul tastes or odors in your mouth, or signs of infection. These symptoms may indicate issues like dry socket or an infection, which require immediate attention.
Overall Timeline
For most patients, healing from a surgical extraction will happen in one or two weeks. The discomfort and swelling generally decrease significantly after the first few days as the gums start to heal. Complete healing of the bone and underlying tissues can take up to a few months, but most patients will be able to resume normal activities and diet within a week or two.
Conclusion
Recovering from a surgical extraction requires some patience and care, but following the dentist’s instructions can make a big difference in how quickly you heal. By managing pain, maintaining proper oral hygiene, and allowing your body to heal, you can help to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.