Tooth extraction and recovery: How to ensure fast healing?
Tooth extraction is a common procedure that may be necessary for various reasons – most often due to extensive tooth decay, inflammation, cracks, problems with wisdom teeth, or as part of orthodontic treatment. Although it can be an unpleasant experience, most patients recover quickly after extraction – provided they follow the right recommendations.
Healing itself is a natural process in which the body regenerates damaged tissues. However, there are proven procedures that can significantly speed up healing and minimize the risk of complications, such as infection or the painful condition known as “dry socket.”
In this article, we bring you practical and verified tips on how to support fast and trouble-free healing after extraction. Thanks to them, you will handle the recovery period more comfortably and safely.
What to expect after tooth extraction
Healing after the procedure usually takes a few days to weeks depending on the complexity and the patient’s health. In the first 24 to 48 hours, the body begins to recover – a blood clot forms at the site, which protects the wound and enables healing.
Common symptoms include:
- Mild to moderate pain, which can be managed with analgesics.
- Slight facial swelling, usually subsiding within 2–3 days.
- Bleeding in the first few hours.
However, if heavy bleeding, fever, or bad breath occurs, it is essential to contact your doctor immediately.
10 tips for fast and trouble-free healing after extraction
Proper care has a fundamental influence on healing speed. Here are 10 practical tips we recommend to patients at Smile Time:
1. Rest during the first 24 hours
Get some rest after the procedure. Avoid physical exertion and sports. Your body needs energy for regeneration.
2. Don’t bite into the wound – use the other side of your mouth
When eating, use only the opposite side of your mouth to avoid injuring the fresh wound and preventing infection.
3. Don’t use a straw and don’t rinse vigorously
Sucking through a straw or vigorous rinsing can dislodge the blood clot, which is crucial for healing.
4. Don’t drink alcohol and don’t smoke (at least 48 hours)
Alcohol and nicotine slow down healing and increase the risk of dry socket.
5. Ice your face – it helps reduce swelling
Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the affected side of the face for 10–15 minute intervals during the first day.
6. Choose soft and lukewarm foods
Eat porridges, yogurts, or soups. Avoid hot and crunchy foods that could irritate the extraction area.
7. Maintain oral hygiene, but gently
Brush your teeth carefully. Don’t brush the wound itself in the first days, but keep the surrounding teeth and gums clean.
8. Use recommended rinses
24 hours after the procedure, you can start gently rinsing with salt water or chamomile (let the liquid flow freely through the mouth).
9. Take pain relief medication as directed
Analgesics work best when taken regularly after the procedure according to recommendations.
10. Protect the blood clot in the wound
The clot is the wound’s natural protection. Do not try to remove it with your tongue or fingers.
Common complications and how to prevent them
1. Dry socket (alveolitis)
This occurs when the blood clot does not stay in the wound. It manifests as intense pain 2–4 days after the procedure. In this case, contact us immediately.
2. Infection
Manifested by fever, pus, and odor. Prevention involves proper hygiene and recommended rinses.
How Smile Time helps with smooth healing
At Smile Time in Prague, we emphasize a gentle approach. We use modern tools to minimize tissue damage. Whether you need dental hygiene, a dental implant, or teeth whitening, you are in safe hands with us.
We are contracted with the VZP insurance company. Give us a call, and we will be happy to assist you. We can provide an estimated price, available dates, and answer any questions you may have.