Have you ever wondered how long it takes for your gums and bone to heal after a tooth extraction? While recovering from oral surgery, it is important to carefully follow all post-operative instructions. Following these instructions can help speed healing and reduce the risk of complications and infection.
In the first 24 hours following the extraction, the bleeding should cease and a blood clot should be in place where the tooth was removed. It is important that you do not disrupt the blood clot as it serves as a protective barrier. It is common to observe some swelling and inflammation on the side of the mouth where the extraction occurred, with tenderness in the gums surrounding the extraction site. After several days, the discomfort from the extraction and swelling should gradually diminish.
Around 1-2 weeks post-extraction, you should notice the gums beginning to seal off the socket, gradually transitioning from the initial blood clot to the early stages of gum tissue formation. The surgical site will remain sensitive to touch and may bleed more readily than the surrounding gum tissue, necessitating caution to avoid irritating the area and abstaining from sharp or crunchy foods.
By 3-4 weeks following the extraction, the site will primarily be filled with new gum tissue, possibly displaying a slight indentation where the tooth was extracted. While sensitivity to sharp or crunchy foods may persist, the area should no longer cause pain or irritation.
It is important to note that while gum tissue heals relatively quickly, the jaw bone's healing process takes longer. Bone healing typically begins after one week, progresses to substantial filling of the extraction site with new bone by ten weeks, and achieves near-complete filling by four months. By eight months post-extraction, the edges of the new bone should be flush with the old bone. Throughout this period, bone tissue undergoes gradual hardening.
To facilitate optimal healing after a tooth extraction, diligent post-operative care is essential. By following these post-operative instructions and maintain good oral hygiene, you can promote a smoother and speedier recovery process, ensuring the best possible outcome from your tooth extraction procedure. If you need a tooth removed, call our office at 618-529-2571 to schedule an appointment with our team of surgical experts.