Recovery after a tooth extraction varies with the tooth, how it was removed and your general health. For a simple extraction, the gum usually settles within one to two weeks; the bone takes longer to fully heal.
Aftercare tips
- Rest for the remainder of the day and avoid strenuous activity for a day or two.
- Bite on gauze as instructed to control bleeding.
- Do not rinse vigorously, spit forcefully or drink through a straw for the first 24 hours.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, which can slow healing.
- Keep brushing your other teeth, taking care around the extraction site.
- Eat soft foods and chew on the other side.
- Take pain relief as advised by your dentist.
When to contact us
Call your dentist if you have heavy bleeding that does not stop with pressure, increasing pain after two or three days (which can be a sign of dry socket), swelling that gets worse, fever or numbness that does not wear off.
Wisdom teeth
Recovery after wisdom tooth removal can take longer, particularly after surgical removal.
Related articles
- Wisdom Teeth Removal: When Is It Needed?
- Wisdom Teeth Removal Cost: What Affects the Fee
- Tooth Extraction Cost: Three Factors That Affect the Price
This article is general information only and does not replace advice from your own dentist. Whether a treatment is suitable for you can only be decided after an examination. All dental treatment carries risks, and results vary from person to person. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.