The oral cavity begins a complex and natural healing process when a tooth is lost, whether as a result of extraction or trauma. Unless you’re receiving a dental implant, your dentist usually won’t fill the socket left after a tooth extraction. Rather, they let it mend and close on its own. You must be wondering how long it will take for the hole to close after the procedure. Well, it may take 7-21 days.
What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?
Your dentist may use stitches to seal the incision at bigger extraction sites, such as after the removal of wisdom teeth. If not, you will be given gauze to bite down on, which will provide pressure to halt the bleeding and promote the development of a blood clot, which is essential for healing.
After that, your dentist will schedule a time for you to have your stitches taken out if needed and provide you with maintenance instructions for the gum hole. They will examine the wound site the next time you have a dental checkup, ideally every six months, to make sure everything has healed properly.
How Long Will It Take for the Hole to Close?
Healing time after a tooth extraction varies depending on your extraction type:
Simple Extraction
Simple extractions of teeth that have erupted and are completely visible usually show different recovery times. In about a week, the gum tissue usually covers the socket of smaller teeth with a single root. The closure time for bigger teeth with many roots, which leave behind a more considerable socket, is typically three weeks.
As the underlying bone structure progressively fills in, the gum tissue may seem healed at this stage, but it may take many months for the bone tissue inside the socket to fully regenerate.
Surgical Extraction
Surgical tooth extractions require a lengthier recovery period as they involve incisions and, occasionally, bone removal. In around 6 weeks, the extraction socket usually experiences considerable gum tissue closure. The total bone fill and full healing process, in which the socket is completely filled and the underlying bone structure regenerates, may take many more months.
How to Care for Your Oral Health After Tooth Extraction?
To assist you in managing your recuperation after tooth extraction, here are some dos and don’ts:
- Cover the region with a gauze pad for at least half an hour
- Rinse the area with salt water to keep it clean
- Take it easy and allow your body to rest
- Drink a lot of water at room temperature
- Stay away from any activity that creates suction in your mouth during the first several days
- Avoid drinking anything that is really hot or cold
Final Say!
The healing period after tooth extraction is a dynamic process that depends on several variables, mostly the type of extraction and the healing ability of the patient. The hole from a tooth extraction usually takes 6 weeks to close. However, the exact time frame depends on your specific condition.
For further concerns, visit us at Smile Time Dental Houston. Call us at (281) 245-0711 to book your appointment.