Wisdom tooth extraction is a common dental procedure, often recommended when these molars cause issues like overcrowding or impaction. Healing begins immediately to repair the surgical site. Understanding this recovery timeline helps manage expectations and ensures a smoother experience.
Initial Gum Healing After Extraction
Immediately following a wisdom tooth extraction, a blood clot forms in the socket. This clot acts as a protective barrier, preventing excessive bleeding and infection. It is important to avoid disturbing this clot in the first 24 hours to prevent complications like dry socket.
Over the next few days, the initial swelling and discomfort peak and subside. Within one to two weeks, the gum tissue starts to seal off the socket as new gum tissue forms. During this period, the site remains sensitive, and gentle oral hygiene is recommended to prevent irritation.
Full Gum Closure and Socket Remodeling
While the superficial gum tissue may appear closed within a few weeks, the complete healing of the underlying bone and soft tissue is a longer process. Within about a month, the gum tissue usually covers and closes the socket, though a slight indentation may still be present.
The bone within the socket continues to remodel and fill in over several months. Bone healing begins after one week, with substantial filling of the extraction site with new bone by ten weeks, and near-complete filling by four months. The new bone tissue gradually hardens, and by about eight months, the new bone edges should be flush with the old bone.
Factors Affecting Healing Time
Several factors can influence the duration and quality of gum and bone healing after a wisdom tooth extraction. Younger individuals often experience faster healing due to better regenerative capabilities. A patient’s overall health and immune status also impact recovery, as chronic conditions can prolong the healing period.
Lifestyle choices, such as smoking, delay healing due to nicotine’s effects on blood flow and tissue repair. Smoking also increases the risk of dry socket by dislodging the protective blood clot. Extraction-related factors like the complexity of the procedure, whether the tooth was impacted, and the number of teeth removed can also extend recovery times. The presence of an infection before or after surgery will also prolong healing.
Recognizing Normal Healing Versus Complications
After wisdom tooth extraction, some pain, swelling, and minor bleeding are expected. Pain peaks within 24 to 72 hours and gradually decreases, manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers. Swelling around the jawline or cheeks is common in the initial days and should gradually subside.
Persistent, severe pain that worsens or does not respond to medication could indicate a problem, such as a dry socket. Signs of infection include increasing swelling after the first few days, pus discharge, a foul taste in the mouth, or fever. If excessive bleeding continues beyond the first day or if you experience difficulty swallowing or breathing, it is appropriate to contact your oral surgeon or dentist.