A dentist will recommend the removal of a tooth if:
- The damage is beyond repair because of a large cavity.
- The tooth is too damaged to be repaired.
- The bone that supports the gums has been weakened by advanced gum disease.
- A baby tooth is blocking the adult tooth from coming in (only for children).
- You need to make room for a dental implant, braces, or a denture.
- The tooth is painful, impacted, or infected.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from an Extraction?
Recovery time can vary greatly from patient to patient, depending on factors like the size and location of the tooth, the patient’s dental health, and their compliance with aftercare instructions.
Recovery is typically short for a simple tooth extraction, which involves removing the tooth after it has already emerged into the mouth. Your oral surgeon may ask you to rest for 48-72 hours after the procedure to allow the area to clot. The patient can then resume normal physical activities. Soft tissue usually heals in 3-4 weeks.
The recovery time is longer for a patient who has had a surgical removal (a tooth extracted from the jawbone and gums). The doctor will probably recommend that the patient rest for the first 48 to 72 hours and then limit physical activity for a week before returning to normal activities.
How much time a patient needs to be off work after an extraction will be determined by how physically active their job is. It is important that the patient and oral surgeon discuss this in advance so they can work with their employer, if needed.
Recovering from Extractions: Tips and Tricks
To ensure that a patient recovers quickly from an extraction:
- During the first few days, avoid brushing, flossing, or chewing at the site of treatment.
- For the first 24 hours, do not rinse your mouth or spit. This will allow a blood clot to form.
- Avoid smoking as it increases your risk of infection.
- Avoid physical activity to prevent dislodging the clot, which could lead to a painful dry socket.
- Keep your head elevated when sleeping during the first few nights to prevent bleeding.
- Use a cold compress as prescribed or take the medication to control swelling or pain.
Modern dental technology, combined with local anesthesia, makes most extractions quick and easy. Recovery is also relatively short. If you want to avoid the need for a tooth extraction, the best way is to brush and floss twice daily and visit your dentist regularly. This simple plan will help ensure that you leave the dentist with as many teeth as you had when you first arrived.
This post was written by Elite Dental and Orthodontics, an Emergency Dentist Los Angeles. Elite Dental’s mission is to provide exceptional dental care that brings smiles to life. Whether you’re seeking relief from tooth pain, considering a veneer smile makeover, or require a dental implant, our experienced team is here to guide you on your journey to optimal oral health in Los Angeles, CA.