Guide to Recovery from an Emergency Extraction Part 1

How long do extractions take to healYour general dentist or oral surgeon will attempt to salvage and preserve your tooth if possible, but if not, they may need to extract it. An extraction entails complete removal of a tooth. The more complex extractions are typically performed by oral surgeons. 

Reasons for tooth extraction go beyond tooth decay. For instance, tooth extraction could be the only viable solution for crowding in the mouth. An oral surgeon would need to perform a single or multiple extractions in preparation for your dental implant procedure.

Regardless of the reason for tooth extraction, the procedure and the follow-up needs to be performed as safely and efficiently as possible so as to make your experience comfortable and ensure your desired outcome. An extraction requires you to follow a diligent aftercare routine designed to promote clotting and healing while controlling bleeding, protecting the extraction site and preventing complications. 

What is a typical healing timeline for emergency dental extractions for patients from Escondido and other areas?

Check out our guide to tooth extraction aftercare!

How long do extractions take to heal?

Multiple factors affect the duration of aftercare for extracted teeth. For instance, some teeth are more difficult and more complex to remove. Teeth with deeper roots and the surrounding gum tissue may take longer to heal. Surgical extractions are more complex to perform and take longer to heal, especially if complications arise. 

The same goes for wisdom teeth removal, especially when multiple or even all four wisdom teeth are removed at once. Aftercare following multiple extractions can be challenging, too. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions depending on your specific case. 

In the majority of cases, however, a patient will endure discomfort for about 3 days following the procedure, after which they should begin to experience improvement. Your surgeon will instruct you on how to maintain the blood clot in the newly empty socket where the tooth used to be. This is the key aspect of aftercare which also helps you avoid painful complications.

While some symptoms are normal for up to 10 days, the following may be reason for concern:

  • Severe pain
  • Worsening pain and swelling
  • Recurring bleeding
  • A high fever
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Drainage from the wound

Can I go to work the same day I get a tooth pulled?

It depends on the complexity of your tooth extraction. Simple extractions which can be performed by general dentists and which concern the removal of teeth above the gum line are normally done with the use of local anesthesia, and patients are usually ready to go back to work the very next day. However, recovery may take slightly longer if a patient has had multiple simple extractions done.

Should I go to work the day after a tooth extraction?

Your doctor will estimate your healing time and help you determine whether you may want to take time off work to allow for the healing to take place.

Most people decide to take a day off, especially if their normal day on the job requires straining or intensive physical activity. 

If general anesthesia is used during the procedure, you should rest for the rest of the day. 

What helps tooth extractions heal faster?

When it comes to the healing process following a complex tooth extraction, your dental surgeon will be your best resource.

The quality of your aftercare routine will be an important factor in determining your healing time. Other factors include the size of the wound left by the extracted tooth and your own medical history and that of your family. Lifestyle choices such as smoking and natural susceptibility to bruising may mean that both the clotting and the healing process will take longer.

The patient’s age is also an important factor when it comes to healing. Namely, younger patients are likely to heal from this type of surgery faster. They also face a lower risk of complications, bruising and swelling.

In general:

  • Use saline rinses to prevent infections
  • Brush and floss as usual while avoiding the extraction site.
  • Stick to soft foods

You can also use ice packs, saline rinses and over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and pain.

Reach out to us for emergency dental extractions for Escondido patients 

Should I go to work the day after a tooth extractionWondering how soon can you expect to make full recovery from your dental extraction? Find out why Dr. Tsvetov is the number one choice for patients from Escondido and other cities in the area. In the event you are experiencing worsening symptoms from potential complications, let us know. As an experienced, knowledgeable specialist, Dr. Tsvetov can take care of these complications comfortably and efficiently.

Rest assured your health and safety will be our number one priority. Contact us now!