Getting a tooth extracted means you don't have to stop your normal daily activities for a long time, but coming back to work or exercising too soon can slow your healing. Healing will depend on the complexity of the procedure and the condition of the tooth being removed. Following the aftercare instructions of your dentist is very important, as it will give you an idea of what to expect after the extraction. It is also important so that you can prevent unnecessary discomfort. It gives information on when something may require more professional attention.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Tooth Extraction?
In most cases, people are able to get back to light, normal activities (e.g., work, school) within 1 to 2 days after a simple extraction. However, complete healing after a simple extraction can take weeks to months. During the first few days after extraction, some tenderness and mild swelling are to be expected. These should progressively improve.
Patients need to describe the timeline of recovery based on the type of surgery done:
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Simple extraction: Many people are able to return to everyday activities within 1-2 days of the simple extraction procedure.
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Surgical extraction: Full recovery can take several days for more invasive procedures where the dentist is required to remove bone or make an incision.
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Wisdom tooth extraction: Healing from the removal of all wisdom teeth can take 1-2 weeks depending on the complexity of the procedure.
For all types of extractions, full healing and recovery from the extraction site takes several months due to the healing of gum and bone tissue.
When Can You Return to Work and Exercise?
The right time to resume normal activities depends on your recovery and how your body feels after the procedure.
Returning to Work
If the extraction was simple, then you may be able to go back to work the next day. Those who underwent surgical extractions may need 2-3 days of rest.
Depending on your job, you may need additional recovery time if your job involves a lot of physical activity.
Resuming Exercise
Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 24 to 48 hours after extraction and longer if your dentist instructs you to.
Certain exercises can increase your heart rate and blood pressure and can disrupt the blood clot and cause it to bleed more at the extraction site.
Bleeding and throbbing at the extraction site while exercising means you're not allowing enough time for healing to occur, and you should slow down.
What Should You Eat After Tooth Extraction?
The first 24 hours after extraction are when the site is the most sensitive and painful and can benefit the most from healing aids. These foods are helpful because they usually require little to no chewing. Some of these are yogurt, soups, eggs (if cooked soft and runny), smoothies, and mashed potatoes.
While the site is healing, more and more foods with a higher density can be re-added to your diet. Foods and drinks to avoid during the early stages of healing include:
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Hot foods and drinks.
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Foods that are crunchy, sticky, or tough.
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Foods that require suction, like straws.
Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth can help alleviate pain during the early stages of healing.
How Can You Speed Up Healing After Dental Extraction Treatment?
Complications and discomfort after a dental extraction can be reduced by educating the patient about proper aftercare.
One of the most essential things in the aftercare of a dental extraction is the protection of the blood clot that forms in the extraction socket. This clot, as part of the healing process, covers the exposed bone and nerves.
It is important for the patient to understand the following:
1. Keep the extraction site clean: This does not mean, however, that the patient can clean the site with a toothbrush. The patient needs to be instructed about how to avoid the extraction site during toothbrushing for the first 24 hours. The patient can also begin rinsing with prescribed saltwater after the first 24 hours to keep the extraction site clean.
2. Avoid smoking/vaping: Smoking increases the risk of dry socket and also slows healing.
3. Follow the medicine instructions: The patient needs to take the medicine prescribed by the dentist for pain relief and also follow the instructions for the dosage and time.
What Are the Warning Signs After Tooth Extraction?
There will be some discomfort after tooth removal. However, there are possible symptoms of complications.
A dry socket occurs when a blood clot does not form or is lost over the extracted tooth. This exposes the bone and causes a continuous, severe pain that is felt on the second or third day after the extraction.
If you have severe pain, or pain that is getting worse, or you have other symptoms along with persistent bleeding, swelling, fever, or an unpleasant taste in the mouth, this may be an indication of an infection. Call your dentist if you have any of these symptoms. Difficulty in breathing or swallowing, or if there is rapidly increasing swelling, is an emergency and requires immediate attention.
If you need a damaged tooth removed, Lit Dental, offers tooth extraction services along with other dental treatments to support your oral health.
Conclusion
Most people can resume light daily activities within 24-48 hours after having a tooth pulled. But more strenuous activities or exercise should still be avoided. It is recommended that you follow all professional aftercare instructions to avoid complications. Be aware of the signs that may indicate that there is a problem. If you have persistent tooth pain or think that a tooth may need to be removed, then you should schedule an appointment with a dentist to have it evaluated and possibly removed. An evaluation with Lit Dental may help you identify options that are appropriate for you.
