A tooth extraction is a common dental procedure where a tooth is removed from its socket in the bone. This process becomes necessary for various reasons, such as severe decay, extensive damage, gum disease, or impaction, where a tooth is unable to emerge properly. Understanding the normal healing process after an extraction can help alleviate concerns about the appearance of the extraction site and guide expectations for recovery.
The Immediate Aftermath
Immediately following a tooth extraction, the site will show several expected visual signs. A blood clot forms within the socket, typically within the first 24 hours. This clot, which resembles a dark-colored scab, covers the empty space and acts as a protective barrier over the underlying bone and nerve endings.
Minor bleeding or oozing is normal and can persist for several hours, sometimes appearing mixed with saliva. Gauze pads are placed over the site to help control this bleeding and encourage clot formation. Swelling and bruising around the extraction area are also common. Swelling begins within a few hours and may peak within 24 to 48 hours, while minor bruising can appear on the gums or outer jaw and fades within a few days.
Healing Progression
The extraction site undergoes a series of changes as it heals over days, weeks, and months. After the initial blood clot forms, new tissue called granulation tissue begins to develop, often within 24 to 48 hours. This tissue, which may appear creamy white, reddish, or pale pink, is made of new blood vessels, collagen, and white blood cells, serving as a protective layer and a foundation for new gum and bone growth.
As healing progresses, around day 3 to 7, the swelling should noticeably decrease, and the socket may appear smaller as new gum tissue starts to form around its edges. The granulation tissue matures, eventually being replaced by normal gum tissue. While the gum tissue may largely close over the socket within one to three weeks, the underlying bone continues to heal and fill the socket over several months.
Recognizing Complications
While the healing process is straightforward, certain signs can indicate a complication requiring professional attention. Severe, throbbing pain that worsens rather than improves several days after the extraction can be a symptom of a dry socket. A dry socket occurs when the protective blood clot dislodges or dissolves prematurely, exposing the underlying bone and nerves, and the socket may appear empty or show visible bone.
Signs of infection include worsening pain, increased swelling that spreads beyond the initial area, severe redness, fever, or the presence of pus at the extraction site. A persistent bad taste or foul odor from the mouth can also signal an infection. Excessive or prolonged bleeding that does not subside after applying pressure, or continues beyond 24 hours, also warrants contacting a dentist promptly.