Tooth Extraction (Pain, Recovery & Aftercare Tips)

What Is Tooth Extraction and When Is It Necessary?

Tooth extraction, also commonly referred to as tooth pulling, tooth removal, or having a tooth taken out, is a standard dental procedure performed by a dentist or oral surgeon. But what is tooth extraction exactly, and when do you need it?
Tooth extraction involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the jawbone, known professionally as extraction in dentistry or dental extraction. It’s typically recommended when a tooth becomes severely damaged or diseased and cannot be effectively restored. Some of the main reasons why your dentist may suggest getting a tooth extracted include extensive tooth decay, significant infection, overcrowding, or gum disease.
When a tooth is severely infected or decayed, traditional treatments like fillings or root canals may not suffice, making an extracted tooth the safest choice to protect your oral health. Additionally, orthodontic treatments frequently require teeth extractions to create enough room for proper alignment. A dentist taking out teeth will also assess your specific circumstances, considering alternatives before recommending extraction.
The procedure itself can either be a simple extraction, involving teeth that are visible and accessible, or a more complex surgical tooth extraction, such as removing impacted wisdom teeth or performing a surgical molar extraction. Surgical removal typically requires incisions in the gums, possibly removing bone or dividing the tooth into pieces for easier removal.
Understanding the reason behind your recommended extraction and familiarizing yourself with the tooth extraction procedure can help alleviate anxiety about having your tooth pulled. A typical tooth extraction surgery is straightforward, performed with minimal discomfort, and most importantly, intended to ensure your long-term oral health.
By clearly understanding what extraction of tooth entails, you can be better prepared for the procedure and recovery ahead.

What Happens During the Tooth Extraction Procedure?

Understanding the process of pulling a tooth can ease anxiety, making you feel more prepared when visiting the dentist. Whether you’re undergoing a simple tooth extraction procedure or a more complex surgical removal of tooth, knowing what to expect is crucial.

How Does a Dentist Perform a Simple Tooth Extraction?

A simple extraction involves a visible tooth that can be easily accessed. Your dentist will begin by administering a local anesthetic to numb the area, ensuring minimal discomfort during the tooth removal procedure. After confirming that you’re comfortable, the dentist uses an instrument called an elevator to gently loosen the tooth. Once the tooth is adequately loosened, specialized dental forceps grasp and remove the tooth from its socket. This procedure is often quick, typically taking only a few minutes.
If you’re concerned about whether a simple dental extraction hurts, rest assured that local anesthesia significantly minimizes pain. You will primarily feel gentle pressure rather than sharp pain, as the area is completely numb during the extraction.

What to Expect in a Surgical Tooth Extraction?

A surgical tooth extraction is slightly more involved and typically applies to teeth that are broken below the gum line or impacted teeth, such as wisdom teeth. In the case of impacted molars, especially lower molars (lower molar extraction) or back molars (back molar pulled), surgical intervention is common.
During this surgery extraction, you’ll typically receive both local anesthesia and sedation, which might be intravenous (IV) or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity and your comfort level. Your oral surgeon will make a small incision into the gums to expose the tooth and surrounding bone. They may need to remove some bone around the tooth or cut the tooth into smaller pieces to extract it safely. This careful approach helps prevent excessive damage to the jawbone and surrounding tissues.
Though the procedure may sound intimidating, the use of anesthesia ensures that patients experience minimal discomfort. While surgical molar extraction takes slightly longer—usually around 20 to 40 minutes—many patients find the experience manageable and relatively pain-free during the procedure.

Tools Used in Teeth Extraction Surgery

Dentists and oral surgeons employ specialized instruments, including elevators, luxators, and extraction forceps, specifically designed for removing teeth efficiently and safely. Each instrument is chosen based on the tooth’s position, shape, and condition. For example, molars often require different instruments compared to front teeth (front tooth pulled).
In both simple and surgical procedures, achieving hemostasis (stopping bleeding) afterward is crucial. Typically, your dentist will have you bite gently on a gauze pad to form a blood clot in the tooth socket. This clot is vital for healing and preventing complications like dry socket.
By knowing exactly how to remove a tooth and what tools are involved, you can approach your teeth extraction surgery with confidence and reassurance.

Does a Tooth Extraction Hurt? Understanding What to Expect 

The thought of having a tooth extraction often raises concerns and anxiety, especially regarding pain. Patients commonly ask, “does dental extraction hurt?” or wonder if the experience of pulling a tooth is something to fear. It’s important to separate fact from myth, understand the process clearly, and learn how discomfort is managed effectively.

Is Tooth Removal Painful During the Procedure? 

During the procedure itself, a dentist taking out teeth or an oral surgeon will use local anesthesia to numb the area around your tooth. Whether you’re undergoing a straightforward tooth pulling procedure or a more complicated surgical tooth extraction, you should not feel pain during the actual extraction. While the term “tooth pulling” might sound intimidating, in reality, patients typically report feeling only mild pressure or slight discomfort rather than sharp pain. The sensation of pressure comes from the dentist or surgeon manipulating the tooth to loosen it from its socket, which is completely normal and not indicative of pain.
In more complex cases, such as a surgical removal of tooth, sedation or general anesthesia might be recommended. This ensures you remain comfortable, relaxed, and pain-free throughout the entire tooth extraction surgery.

Pain After Having a Tooth Pulled: What to Expect 

After the anesthesia begins to wear off following a tooth removal procedure, you may experience some degree of pain or soreness. This is a normal part of the recovery process as your body heals from the extraction. Pain levels can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the extraction, whether it involved a molar (molar pulled), particularly lower molar extraction, and your personal pain threshold.
Common sensations after getting a tooth extracted include mild throbbing, soreness in the jaw muscles, and tenderness at the normal tooth extraction site. Generally, these symptoms peak within the first two to three days and gradually diminish. Your dentist will usually advise you on suitable pain relief medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage these symptoms effectively.

Factors That Influence Pain Levels After Extraction 

Certain factors can influence how much pain you experience post-extraction. Surgical molar extraction, for instance, may lead to more noticeable swelling and soreness compared to a simpler extraction involving front teeth. Also, a lower tooth extraction might cause more discomfort because the bone in the lower jaw is denser than in the upper jaw, often making recovery slightly more uncomfortable.
Additionally, individual factors like stress, anxiety, and overall health can impact your pain perception. Understanding these influences can help you better manage your expectations and discomfort.
In conclusion, while mild discomfort after a tooth extraction is normal, severe pain isn’t typical and could indicate complications like dry socket or infection. Being informed, following post-operative instructions diligently, and communicating openly with your dentist are key to experiencing a manageable, smooth, and relatively pain-free recovery.

How Long Does It Take to Recover from a Tooth Extraction? 

Recovery from a tooth extraction varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and individual healing capacities. Typically, the initial healing period after getting a tooth extracted lasts around one to two weeks. However, the full recovery—including regeneration of bone and gum tissue around the extracted tooth site—may take several months. Understanding the timeline and expectations can significantly reduce anxiety and aid in faster healing.

What Is a Normal Tooth Extraction Recovery Timeline?

Immediately after the procedure, patients experience minor bleeding, swelling, and discomfort. This extraction recovery phase is typically most intense within the first 24 to 72 hours. Swelling usually peaks by the third day, often referred to by patients asking, “Why is day 3 the worst after tooth extraction?” This is because inflammation naturally reaches its highest point around this time, causing maximum discomfort and swelling.
By day four to seven, pain typically begins to decrease significantly, and swelling gradually subsides. You might notice your pulled tooth healing noticeably during this period, and most people can resume normal activities and work within a few days, depending on the job’s physical demands. For a straightforward extraction, many individuals take only one or two days off. However, if you’ve undergone a more extensive surgical tooth extraction, especially involving a molar removal surgery or impacted teeth, it’s recommended to rest for three to five days to avoid complications and ensure proper healing.
From days seven to fourteen, the extraction site usually starts to close visibly, and the gum tissue begins to regenerate significantly. During this phase, it’s common for patients to ask, “What is the white stuff in my tooth extraction site?” This white tissue typically represents granulation tissue—a healthy part of the healing process.

Factors Influencing Tooth Extraction Healing Time 

Various factors can affect how long it takes for a tooth extraction recovery to fully occur:

• Complexity of extraction: Simple extractions generally heal quicker, whereas surgical molar extractions and impacted teeth can lengthen the healing period.
• Overall health and age: Younger, healthier individuals generally heal faster than older adults or those with underlying health conditions.
• Oral hygiene and aftercare: Proper tooth extraction aftercare, including careful cleaning and adherence to post-operative instructions, significantly reduces recovery time.
• Lifestyle habits: Smoking or alcohol consumption after a tooth removal procedure can severely impede healing and prolong recovery.

Signs of Proper Healing After a Tooth Extraction 

Knowing what healthy healing looks like helps in identifying any potential issues early. Normal signs of healing include:

• Gradual decrease in pain and swelling.
• Formation of a stable blood clot at the normal tooth extraction site.
• Absence of prolonged bleeding or severe pain after the initial few days.
• No severe fever, chills, or discharge (signs of infection).

What Are the Aftercare Instructions for a Tooth Extraction? 

Proper tooth extraction aftercare is essential to ensure a smooth healing process and prevent complications like infection or dry socket. Following the correct aftercare of tooth extraction can significantly reduce pain, swelling, and recovery time while promoting faster healing. Below, we break down the essential steps to follow after getting a tooth extracted.

Immediate Post-Extraction Care 

The first 24 hours after a tooth removal procedure are the most crucial for clot formation and minimizing bleeding. Here’s what you should do immediately after your tooth extraction:

• Apply pressure on the extraction site: Bite down gently on the gauze provided by your dentist for at least 30–45 minutes. This helps in clot formation, which is vital for healing.
• Avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours: Patients often ask, “What happens if I accidentally rinse my mouth after tooth extraction?” Rinsing too soon can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket, a painful condition where the bone is exposed.
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol: Smoking disrupts blood clot formation and delays healing. Why no dairy after tooth extraction? Some dentists advise avoiding dairy as it may increase the risk of bacterial infection due to the presence of lactic acid and potential curdling in the mouth.
• Keep your head elevated: Sleep with an extra pillow to minimize swelling and bleeding.

How to Keep Your Mouth Clean After Tooth Extraction? 

• Start gentle rinsing after 24 hours: Mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and rinse your mouth gently 3-4 times daily, especially after meals.
• Avoid vigorous brushing near the extraction site: When cleaning teeth after extraction, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid touching the pulled tooth healing area directly.
• Do not use straws: The suction from using a straw can disturb the healing process and increase the risk of dislodging the blood clot.

Managing Pain and Swelling 

• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication: Many people ask, “What is the best painkiller for tooth extraction?” Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are commonly recommended to help manage pain and reduce swelling.
• Apply a cold compress: Placing an ice pack on the outside of your cheek for 10–15 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours can help minimize swelling.
• Monitor for signs of infection: If you experience symptoms such as severe pain that doesn’t improve, swelling that worsens after 3–4 days, or pus from the extraction site, contact your dentist immediately.

When Can You Eat After a Tooth Extraction? 

• Soft foods are recommended for the first few days: Many patients ask, “What should I eat the first night after a tooth extraction?” Stick to foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, soup, and smoothies.
• Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods: These can irritate the normal tooth extraction site and delay healing.
• Slowly introduce solid foods: By day 4–5, you can begin eating more substantial foods, but always chew on the opposite side of the extraction site.

What Are the Risks and Complications of Tooth Extraction? 

While tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, it does come with potential risks and complications. Understanding these possible issues can help you recognize symptoms early and take necessary precautions to ensure a smooth recovery. Below, we explore the most common side effects of teeth removal, how to prevent them, and when to seek medical attention.

Common Risks After Tooth Extraction 

Although most tooth extractions heal without complications, some patients may experience mild to moderate side effects, including:

• Pain and swelling – It’s normal to experience discomfort for a few days. However, if pain worsens after 3–4 days, it could indicate an issue.
• Bleeding – Some bleeding is expected after a tooth removal procedure, but excessive or prolonged bleeding might require professional intervention.
• Bruising – The trauma from extraction can cause bruising around the affected area, which usually fades within a week.
• Difficulty opening the mouth – Some patients report jaw stiffness, particularly after surgical tooth extraction.

What Is Dry Socket, and How Can You Prevent It?

One of the most common complications after getting a tooth extracted is dry socket (alveolar osteitis). This occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket gets dislodged or fails to develop properly, exposing the bone and nerves beneath.

Symptoms of Dry Socket:

• Intense, throbbing pain within a few days of the extraction
• A visible empty socket where the clot should be
• Unpleasant taste or foul odor from the extraction site
• Pain that radiates from the socket to the ear, eye, or neck

Preventing Dry Socket:

• Avoid rinsing your mouth aggressively for at least 24 hours after extraction.
• Do not drink through a straw, as suction can dislodge the blood clot.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol, which slow the healing process.
• Follow proper aftercare of tooth extraction, including gentle cleaning teeth after extraction.

Signs of Infection After Tooth Extraction 

Another concern is infection, which can develop if bacteria enter the normal tooth extraction site before it fully heals. Symptoms of infection include:

• Severe or worsening pain – Pain that intensifies instead of improving.
• Persistent swelling – Swelling that gets worse instead of subsiding after a few days.
• Fever and chills – Indicating a possible systemic infection.
• Pus from extraction site – A sign of bacterial infection.
• Redness or warmth around the area – Suggesting inflammation.

Nerve Damage Risk in Lower Molar Extraction 

During lower molar extraction, the inferior alveolar nerve and lingual nerve can sometimes be affected, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness or tingling in the:

• Lips
• Tongue
• Chin

Your dentist will assess this risk with dental extraction procedure X-rays before proceeding. If you experience numbness lasting more than a few weeks, contact your dentist for further evaluation.

Prolonged Healing and Other Complications 

In some cases, pulled tooth healing can take longer than usual, and additional issues may arise, including:

• Bone fragments (sequestra) – Small bone pieces may surface near the extraction site, causing mild irritation.
• Sinus complications – For upper tooth extraction, particularly molars, the roots may be close to the sinus cavity, which can sometimes lead to sinus exposure or infection.
• Excessive bleeding – Patients taking blood thinners or with clotting disorders may be at higher risk of prolonged bleeding.
• Allergic reactions – Though rare, some patients may react to anesthesia or pain medications.

When to Call Your Dentist After a Tooth Extraction? 

You should seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Excessive bleeding lasting beyond 24 hours
• Severe fever and chills
• Persistent, worsening pain that does not respond to painkillers
• Pus or discharge from the socket
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

How Can You Speed Up Healing After a Tooth Extraction? 

Healing after a tooth extraction is a natural process that requires proper care to ensure smooth recovery and to prevent complications like infection or dry socket. While the body has its own healing mechanisms, there are specific steps you can take to speed up healing after a tooth extraction and minimize discomfort.

What to Do Immediately After a Tooth Extraction

The first 24 to 48 hours after getting a tooth extracted are crucial for blood clot formation and tissue healing. Here’s what you should do during this period:

• Bite down on gauze: Your dentist will provide gauze to control bleeding. Keep it in place for at least 30 to 45 minutes, and change it as needed.
• Avoid rinsing your mouth aggressively: This can dislodge the blood clot forming in the socket.
• Use cold compresses: Applying ice packs on the affected side of your face for 15-minute intervals can reduce swelling and pain.
• Rest and limit physical activity: Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours to prevent excessive bleeding.
• Keep your head elevated when lying down: Sleeping with an extra pillow helps minimize swelling and promotes blood circulation to the extraction site.

What Foods Help in Healing After a Tooth Extraction? 

Diet plays an important role in tooth extraction recovery. Eating the right foods can speed up healing and provide essential nutrients for tissue regeneration.

Best Foods for Recovery:

• Soft foods: Yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies are gentle on the gums.
• Protein-rich foods: Cottage cheese, soft fish, and blended soups help with tissue repair.
• Vitamin C sources: Oranges, kiwis, and strawberries (in non-acidic forms) support gum healing.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water, but avoid using straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot.

Foods to Avoid:

• Crunchy or hard foods: Nuts, chips, and toast can irritate the extraction site.
• Hot and spicy foods: These can increase sensitivity and slow down healing.
• Sugary snacks and drinks: These can promote bacterial growth and increase the risk of infection.
• Alcohol and carbonated beverages: They can delay healing and cause discomfort.

How Can Oral Hygiene Speed Up Healing? 

Keeping the tooth extraction site clean is essential to prevent infection and ensure a smooth recovery. However, you need to be gentle to avoid disrupting the healing process.

• Brush carefully: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid direct contact with the extraction site.
• Rinse with warm salt water: After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with a mixture of warm water and salt to reduce bacteria.
• Avoid mouthwash with alcohol: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can cause irritation and dry out the healing gum tissue.
• Do not touch the extraction site: Avoid poking the area with your tongue or fingers.

What Are the Best Pain Management Strategies for Faster Healing? 

Proper pain management allows the body to heal faster by reducing stress and inflammation.

• Take prescribed painkillers: Your dentist may recommend ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain relief.
• Use a cold compress for swelling: Applying ice packs within the first 48 hours helps control inflammation.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol: These can interfere with blood clot formation and increase the risk of dry socket.

How Long Does It Take for the Hole to Close After a Tooth Extraction?

The healing timeline varies depending on the type of tooth removal procedure, but here’s a general breakdown:

• First 24-48 hours: Blood clot forms, and the initial healing process begins.
• 1 week: Gum tissue starts to close over the socket.
• 2-3 weeks: Soft tissue healing progresses, and discomfort subsides.
• 3-6 months: The bone fully regenerates and fills in the socket.

When Should You Contact Your Dentist? 

Even with proper aftercare of tooth extraction, complications can arise. Seek dental attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with medication
• Excessive bleeding beyond the first 24 hours
• Signs of infection, such as fever, pus, or swelling
• Dry socket symptoms, including intense pain and exposed bone

When Is Dry Socket No Longer a Risk? 

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) is one of the most common and painful complications after a tooth extraction, particularly after the removal of a molar or wisdom tooth. It occurs when the blood clot that forms in the socket is dislodged or dissolves too early, exposing the underlying bone and nerves to air, food, and bacteria. This leads to severe pain, delayed healing, and an increased risk of infection.
Understanding when dry socket is no longer a risk can help you take the necessary precautions to ensure proper healing.

How Long Is the Risk of Dry Socket Present?

The risk of developing dry socket is highest in the first 3-5 days after the tooth extraction procedure. This is the critical healing phase where the blood clot is essential for protecting the bone and allowing soft tissue to regenerate.

• Day 1-2: The clot is forming and stabilizing. This is the most crucial period to avoid disruptions.
• Day 3-5: The highest risk period for dry socket. If the clot is lost, pain and sensitivity may develop.
• Day 6-7: If no symptoms of dry socket have appeared, the risk significantly decreases.
• After 7-10 days: The risk is minimal as gum tissue starts closing over the extraction site.

Generally, by day 7 to 10, dry socket is no longer a risk because granulation tissue (new connective tissue and microscopic blood vessels) has covered the exposed bone, significantly reducing pain and sensitivity.

What Are the Symptoms of Dry Socket? 

If you’re within the high-risk period (3-5 days after extraction) and experience the following symptoms, you may have developed dry socket:

• Severe, throbbing pain that radiates to the ear, jaw, or temple.
• Bad breath or foul taste in the mouth.
• Visible bone in the extraction site (socket appears empty or has a greyish color instead of a blood clot).
• Pain that worsens rather than improves over time.
• Swelling and tenderness around the socket.

If you suspect dry socket, contact your dentist immediately for treatment, which may include medicated dressings and pain relief.

How Can You Prevent Dry Socket? 

To minimize the risk of developing dry socket, follow these essential tooth extraction aftercare instructions:

• Avoid smoking and vaping – Nicotine restricts blood flow and can dislodge the clot.
• Don’t use a straw – The suction force can pull the clot from the socket.
• Eat soft foods – Stick to foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies in the first few days.
• Avoid vigorous rinsing or spitting – Gentle saltwater rinses after 24 hours can help keep the area clean.
• Skip alcohol and carbonated beverages – These can irritate the wound and dissolve the clot.
• Keep fingers and tongue away from the site – Touching the area can introduce bacteria or disrupt the clot.
• Follow your dentist’s instructions – Proper oral hygiene and medication usage will aid in healing.

What If You Develop Dry Socket? 

If you experience dry socket pain, seek dental care promptly. Your dentist may:

• Flush the socket to remove debris and bacteria.
• Apply a medicated dressing with pain relievers.
• Prescribe pain medication if necessary.
• Recommend at-home remedies like saline rinses and over-the-counter pain relief.

Dry socket pain usually lasts 3-7 days, but with treatment, relief often begins within 24-48 hours.

When Can You Stop Worrying About Dry Socket? 

By day 7 to 10, if the extraction site is healing well and no pain has developed, you are past the risk of dry socket. At this point:

• The blood clot has solidified or been replaced by granulation tissue.
• Soft tissue begins forming over the site, reducing exposure to air and bacteria.
• Pain and swelling should be minimal, indicating healthy healing.

How Soon Can I Eat After a Tooth Extraction? 

One of the most common concerns after a tooth extraction is when it is safe to eat again without disrupting the healing process. The timing and type of food you consume play a crucial role in preventing complications like dry socket and infection, ensuring a smooth recovery.

When Can You Start Eating After a Tooth Extraction? 

• First 1–2 Hours: Immediately after the tooth removal procedure, you should not eat or drink anything, especially if you received a local anesthetic. This is to prevent accidentally biting your cheek, tongue, or lips while the area is still numb.
• After 2–4 Hours: You can drink water or clear fluids, but avoid using a straw, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot in the socket.
• First 24 Hours: Stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing, such as applesauce, mashed potatoes, yogurt, or smoothies (without a straw).
• After 24–48 Hours: If healing is going well, you can gradually introduce more substantial soft foods like scrambled eggs, oatmeal, and soft pasta.
• After 3–7 Days: You can start eating more solid foods, but avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods that might irritate the healing site.
• After 7–10 Days: You should be able to return to your regular diet, depending on how well your gums are healing.

What Foods Are Safe to Eat After a Tooth Extraction? 

Eating the right foods helps prevent irritation and promotes faster healing. Here are the best food choices:

• Soft dairy products: Yogurt, cottage cheese, pudding.
• Smooth textures: Applesauce, mashed bananas, blended soups.
• Soft protein sources: Scrambled eggs, tofu, smooth peanut butter.
• Cooked, soft vegetables: Mashed potatoes, steamed carrots, pumpkin puree.
• Grains: Oatmeal, soft rice, overcooked pasta.

Avoid foods that are hard, spicy, crunchy, or sticky, as they can irritate the extraction site.

What Foods Should You Avoid After a Tooth Extraction? 

Certain foods and beverages can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications. Avoid the following:

• Hard foods: Nuts, popcorn, chips, and raw vegetables.
• Crunchy foods: Toast, crackers, and granola.
• Sticky foods: Caramel, chewing gum, or gummy candies.
• Spicy or acidic foods: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and hot peppers.
• Carbonated or alcoholic beverages: Soda, beer, or wine can irritate the wound.
• Very hot foods and drinks: Can dissolve the blood clot and delay healing.

How to Eat Without Disrupting Healing? 

To ensure proper healing, follow these eating guidelines:

• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth from the extraction site.
• Take small bites and chew slowly to avoid unnecessary pressure.
• Use a spoon instead of a straw to prevent dry socket risk.
• Let hot foods cool down before consuming them to avoid irritation.
• Stay hydrated with plenty of water, but drink carefully without swishing.

When Can You Resume Normal Eating? 

Most people can return to normal eating within 7–10 days, depending on how their gums heal. If you had a surgical tooth extraction, such as a molar or wisdom tooth removal, recovery might take a bit longer.
If you experience pain, excessive bleeding, or difficulty eating after a week, contact your dentist to ensure there are no complications.
By following proper aftercare instructions and making wise food choices, you can speed up recovery and minimize discomfort, allowing you to return to your normal diet safely.