Having a tooth extracted can be intimidating, but in some cases, it's unavoidable. Fortunately, the actual procedure is relatively quick, and you'll soon be on your way home. Of course, that's not the end of the story—you'll need to take some precautions to ensure optimal healing.
Initial Healing
The first 24-48 hours are the most critical for healing. During this time, a blood clot forms in the socket to protect the underlying bone and nerves. You should avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws during this period.
Complete Healing Timeline
- 1-2 days: Initial blood clot formation
- 3-4 days: Swelling begins to decrease
- 7-10 days: Soft tissue mostly healed
- 3-4 weeks: Socket mostly filled with new tissue
- 3-6 months: Complete bone healing
Tips for Faster Healing
- Follow all post-operative instructions
- Avoid smoking and tobacco
- Eat soft foods for the first few days
- Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing after 24 hours