How Long Does Simple Extraction Take to Heal?
Nobody ever lists "get a tooth pulled" on their bucket list, but at times, it may be the only option to preserve your smile. Whether a stubborn wisdom tooth or a cracked molar, an extraction feels a little like bodywork for the mouth. But what happens once the chair reclines back up and you're back home? That is when the actual healing process begins, and knowing what to anticipate and how long a simple extraction takes to heal can be a big help.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
A simple extraction is when a dentist pulls out a tooth from your mouth. Most of the time, when a tooth is too decayed, damaged, or infected to be preserved, a dentist performs an extraction. Sometimes extraction is necessary to create space, such as before braces or when wisdom teeth are causing trouble. The dentist first numbs the region, so you won’t feel pain. Then they loosen and remove the tooth carefully.
How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take to Heal?
Recovery from a tooth removal can be a bit unique for each person. But in most cases, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks for the gum to fully heal. Here's a brief summary:
- First 24 hours: A blood clot develops in the socket. This is how the body begins the healing process.
- 2 to 3 days: The swelling and tenderness start to subside.
- 1 week: The soft tissues begin to cover the socket.
- 2 weeks: The recovery is mostly complete, and your mouth now feels back to normal.
Recovery Time Depends on the Type of Extraction
It is when your dentist takes out a tooth that can be seen in the mouth already. It is done when:
- The tooth is infected
- Severely decayed
- Tooth causing crowding
- Or the tooth needs to be removed for braces
You will be awake during this treatment, but your dentist will anesthetize the area so that you won’t feel pain.
How Long Does it Take to Heal?
If the tooth is small with one root, the hole tends to close in approximately 7 days. If the tooth is a multi-rooted one, the hole might take about 3 weeks to close. Full healing (when the area no longer feels hollow or sunken) can take a few months.
In Conclusion
A simple tooth extraction usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks to heal fully, though the exact timeline can vary depending on your overall health, oral hygiene, and the location of the extracted tooth. Good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking or alcohol can help speed recovery. If pain, swelling, or bleeding worsens after the first few days, contact your dentist—these could be signs of infection or dry socket. If you are ready to have a tooth extracted, contact us today. We will walk you through what you can expect in all stages of the procedure and beyond.