Tooth extraction can be an essential step toward better oral health, especially in cases of severe decay, gum disease, or overcrowding. Many patients considering tooth removal in Dubai often wonder about the recovery process and how long it will take to feel normal again. Understanding what happens after extraction and how to manage healing can make the experience less stressful and ensure a smooth recovery.
Right after the procedure, your dentist places gauze over the extraction site to control bleeding and help form a clot. This clot is crucial for proper healing, and patients are advised to keep the gauze in place for 30 to 45 minutes. It is important to avoid disturbing the clot, as dislodging it may lead to complications like dry socket.
It is normal to experience mild discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding after extraction. These symptoms typically subside within a few days. Pain can be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications, while swelling often improves with cold compresses applied to the cheek in short intervals.
Initial healing usually takes one to two weeks, during which the gum tissue closes over the extraction site. Complete bone healing beneath the gums may take several months. Factors such as the complexity of the extraction, the patient’s overall health, and adherence to aftercare instructions influence recovery time.
Eating soft foods during the first few days helps protect the extraction site and prevents unnecessary strain. Ideal options include yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or sticky foods that may irritate the gums or dislodge the clot. Hydration is also important, but patients should avoid using straws as the suction can interfere with healing.
Certain habits can slow down healing or cause complications. Patients are advised to refrain from smoking, drinking alcohol, and engaging in strenuous physical activity for at least 48 to 72 hours. These activities can disrupt clot formation and increase the risk of infection.
Maintaining oral hygiene is essential, but it requires a gentle approach. Patients should brush and floss their teeth carefully while avoiding the extraction site for the first 24 hours. After this period, rinsing with a warm saltwater solution can help keep the area clean and reduce the risk of infection.
Pain is a natural part of the healing process, but it can be minimized with medication prescribed by the dentist. Cold compresses are effective in controlling swelling, especially within the first 48 hours. Keeping the head elevated while resting also helps reduce pressure and discomfort.
While most extractions heal without issues, complications can occur. Warning signs include severe or worsening pain, prolonged bleeding, swelling that does not improve, pus discharge, or fever. If any of these occur, patients should contact their dentist immediately for evaluation and treatment.
Dry socket is a painful condition that happens when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged or dissolves too soon. To prevent this, patients should avoid smoking, spitting forcefully, or using straws. If dry socket occurs, dentists may apply a medicated dressing to relieve discomfort and promote healing.