A wisdom tooth extraction involves removing one or more of the four permanent adult teeth located at the back corners of your mouth. Following this common procedure, a “hole” or socket remains where the tooth once was. This open space is a normal part of the healing process, as the body naturally initiates biological events to fill and seal the site.
Timeline for Socket Closure
Initial closure of the extraction site by soft tissue occurs within a few weeks. Within two to four weeks, gum tissue largely covers the socket, though a visible indentation may still be present. This visible “soft tissue hole” is expected and does not indicate a problem.
Complete healing, involving underlying bone regeneration, takes longer. While gum tissue heals quickly, bone filling the socket develops more slowly. Full bone regeneration can take three to six months. The complete disappearance of the socket’s indentation, due to both soft tissue and bone healing, can take one to four months, depending on extraction complexity.
The Healing Process
Healing begins immediately after wisdom tooth removal with blood clot formation in the empty socket. This clot protects exposed bone and nerves from bacteria and serves as a framework for new tissue growth.
By the second or third day, the body forms granulation tissue, a soft, pinkish tissue that fills the socket and marks the beginning of tissue regrowth. This tissue gradually transforms into new bone, a process continuing for several weeks to months. The gum fully closes over the site as bone continues to fill the socket.
Caring for the Extraction Site
Proper care of the extraction site encourages healing and prevents complications. For the first 24 hours after surgery, avoid vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws, as these actions can dislodge the protective blood clot. After this initial period, gentle rinsing with warm salt water helps keep the area clean and reduces inflammation. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water and rinse gently for about 30 seconds.
Maintain oral hygiene, but brush carefully around the surgical site. Consume soft, non-chewy foods for about a week after surgery, such as mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs. Avoid foods like popcorn, peanuts, seeds, or chips for at least two weeks to prevent debris from lodging in the site.
Recognizing Potential Issues
While some discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding are normal after wisdom tooth extraction, certain signs indicate a need for professional dental advice. Increasing or severe pain that does not improve or worsens after a few days suggests an issue. Swelling that intensifies or persists beyond two to three days also suggests a problem.
A dry socket, a common complication, occurs when the blood clot dislodges or fails to form, exposing underlying bone and nerves. Symptoms include intense pain radiating to the ear, eye, temple, or neck, usually starting one to three days after extraction. A foul odor or unpleasant taste can also signal dry socket or infection. Other indicators of infection include pus or discharge from the site, fever, or swollen glands. If any of these symptoms arise, contact a dentist or oral surgeon promptly.