Tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, but it's important to know how to properly care for your mouth after the extraction to ensure a smooth recovery. Whether you’re dealing with an infected tooth, impacted wisdom teeth, or need an emergency tooth extraction, this guide covers everything—from healing stages and soft foods to eat after extraction, to what to avoid during recovery.
Understanding Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. While dentists aim to save teeth whenever possible, extractions may be necessary due to decay, damage, infection, or overcrowding. The extraction can be either simple (a non-surgical procedure) or surgical, often performed for wisdom teeth or impacted teeth.
How Long Does a Tooth Extraction Take?
A typical tooth extraction procedure takes between 20-40 minutes depending on the complexity. Surgical extractions may take a bit longer, especially if bone removal is required.
How Much Does a Tooth Extraction Cost Without Insurance?
The cost of a tooth extraction varies based on location and the complexity of the procedure. The average cost of a simple extraction is between $75 and $200, while surgical extractions, such as wisdom teeth removal, can range from $225 to $600 per tooth. Some clinics even offer $99 tooth extractions, making it more affordable for those without dental insurance.
Healing After Tooth Extraction
Once a tooth is extracted, the healing process begins immediately, but how you care for the extraction site is crucial. Proper aftercare helps to prevent complications like infections, dry socket, or excessive bleeding.
Normal Socket After Tooth Extraction
A normal socket after tooth extraction will begin to clot almost immediately. It’s important to keep the clot in place as it helps the healing process. Avoid touching the socket with your tongue or fingers to reduce the risk of dislodging the clot. The socket will gradually close as gum tissue heals over time.
Tooth Extraction Healing Stages
Clotting: This occurs in the first few hours after the extraction.
Tissue Formation: After a few days, the tissue around the socket begins to form.
Bone Healing: Bone healing takes a bit longer, often up to several weeks or months.
Final Healing: Complete closure of the socket and restoration of the bone structure can take several months.
What to Eat After Tooth Extraction
Knowing what to eat after a tooth extraction is vital to your recovery. Sticking to soft foods and avoiding hard, crunchy, or hot foods helps protect the socket.
Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction
Here are some safe foods for the days following the procedure:
Mashed potatoes
Yogurt
Applesauce
Smoothies (without a straw)
Oatmeal
Scrambled eggs
Broth-based soups
Cottage cheese
Avoid foods that require excessive chewing or may get stuck in the extraction site, such as nuts, seeds, chips, or sticky candy.
When Can I Eat After Tooth Extraction?
Most dentists recommend waiting at least an hour before consuming soft, cool foods. Avoid chewing on the side of the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
When Can I Eat Solid Food After Tooth Extraction?
Solid foods can be reintroduced gradually after about three to seven days, depending on how well you're healing. If you experience any discomfort, delay the introduction of solid foods.
50 Soft Foods to Eat After Tooth Extraction
For a comprehensive list of soft foods you can enjoy during recovery, check out our list of 50 soft foods to eat after tooth extraction, including options like mashed vegetables, fish, puddings, and various dairy products.
Things to Avoid After Tooth Extraction
To promote healing, there are a few things to avoid:
Straws: Using a straw can dislodge the clot, causing a painful condition known as dry socket.
Smoking: Smoking after a tooth extraction slows healing and increases the risk of infection and dry socket. Wait at least 72 hours before smoking.
Hard foods: Stick to soft foods for at least a week to avoid irritation.
Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with healing, so it’s best to avoid it for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
How Long to Keep Gauze In After Tooth Extraction
Typically, gauze should be kept in the mouth for about 30 minutes to an hour after the extraction to help stop bleeding. Change it if necessary, but avoid using gauze after the first few hours.
When to Stop Using Gauze After Tooth Extraction
Once the bleeding has slowed or stopped, you can stop using gauze. This usually happens within the first two to three hours, but follow your dentist's instructions.
Smoking and Drinking After Tooth Extraction
When can I smoke after tooth extraction? Ideally, you should wait at least 72 hours before smoking. Smoking too soon can lead to dry socket and slow the healing process.
Can I drink coffee after tooth extraction? Wait at least 24 hours before drinking coffee, and make sure it is lukewarm. Hot beverages can disturb the clot and delay healing.
Why No Pop After Tooth Extraction?
Carbonated drinks should be avoided for the first 48 hours as the bubbles can dislodge the clot and lead to dry socket.
Emergency Tooth Extraction and Care
If you're experiencing severe pain, infection, or damage to a tooth, you may need an emergency tooth extraction. Search for "emergency tooth extraction near me" to find the closest clinic offering immediate care. Some clinics offer affordable tooth extraction near me options, with prices starting as low as $99.
Tooth Extraction Infection
Signs of an infection after a tooth extraction include severe swelling, fever, and throbbing pain. If you suspect an infection, contact your dentist immediately.
Healing Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Here are some key tips to ensure you heal quickly after a tooth extraction:
Use Ice Packs: Apply ice to the outside of your face for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling.
Keep Your Head Elevated: Sleep with your head elevated for the first night after tooth extraction to reduce swelling.
Avoid Physical Activity: Avoid intense physical activity for at least 48 hours.
Rinse Gently: After 24 hours, rinse your mouth with warm salt water to promote healing, but avoid rinsing too vigorously.
Can I Drive Myself Home After a Full Tooth Extraction?
If local anesthesia is used, you can drive yourself home. However, if you’ve been sedated or had general anesthesia, you will need someone to drive you.
Conclusion
Tooth extraction may seem daunting, but with the right care, the healing process can go smoothly. From what to eat after tooth extraction to the healing stages, being prepared is the best way to ensure a full recovery. Always follow your dentist’s advice and seek help if you encounter complications. And if you’re looking for affordable tooth extraction near me, Smile Boutique NY offers accessible options to help you get back to smiling confidently!
