A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, often performed due to decay, damage, or crowding. Following this intervention, patients frequently wonder when they can safely resume their normal daily routines, particularly physical exercise. Proper healing and preventing complications are important.
Why Immediate Exercise is Risky
Engaging in strenuous physical activity too soon after a tooth extraction carries several risks, due to its impact on blood flow and healing. When you exercise, your heart rate and blood pressure increase, which can lead to increased bleeding at the extraction site. This elevated blood flow can disrupt the blood clot that forms in the empty socket, a crucial step for proper healing.
Dislodging this protective blood clot can result in a painful condition known as dry socket. Dry socket occurs when the underlying bone and nerves become exposed to air, food, and fluids. Exercise can also worsen post-extraction swelling and pain by increasing blood flow to the surgical area, hindering recovery.
Guidance on Resuming Physical Activity
Rest is important for proper healing after a tooth extraction. Dentists recommend avoiding all physical activity for the first 24 to 48 hours, including light activities like walking or stretching. This allows the blood clot to stabilize, protecting the exposed bone and nerves.
After 24 to 48 hours, a gradual return to activity is advised. You might begin with low-impact exercises such as gentle walking, provided there is no pain, throbbing, or bleeding at the extraction site. More strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, running, or high-intensity interval training, should be avoided for at least 5 to 7 days. It is important to listen to your body and cease activity if any discomfort, increased bleeding, or throbbing occurs.
Recognizing Recovery Complications
While some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding are normal after a tooth extraction, certain signs can indicate a complication requiring professional dental attention. Persistent or worsening pain that does not improve with prescribed pain relief, especially if it begins a few days after the extraction, can be a symptom of a dry socket. Severe pain from a dry socket often radiates to the ear, eye, temple, or neck.
Other warning signs include uncontrolled or heavy bleeding that does not stop, a foul odor or unpleasant taste in the mouth, or the presence of pus discharge from the extraction site. Increased swelling or redness that worsens after the initial 48 hours, or the development of a fever, also suggest a potential infection. If any of these symptoms appear, it is important to contact your dentist promptly for evaluation and appropriate treatment.