Tooth Extraction

The time it takes to heal from a tooth extraction is largely dependent upon several factors unique to each situation, such as:

• The number of teeth being extracted — If one tooth is extracted, it will heal a lot faster than if two or more teeth are extracted. This is especially true if the extracted teeth are directly adjacent. However, healing time may be able to be reduced through proper cleaning techniques, such as gargling with salt water.
• The location of the teeth being extracted — Teeth extracted from the front generally leave smaller wounds, which heal faster when compared to more sizable wounds such as in the back of the mouth when extracting a molar.
• The type of tooth extraction performed — A simple extraction has a relatively quick and easy recovery period, but a surgical extraction can require several weeks—even months—to heal. Simple extractions often recover in a few weeks as long as proper oral hygiene methods are implemented.
• If any complications arise — Several different potential complications can arise from tooth extractions. Most of the complications are associated with surgical extractions, as there are many more variables involved. For example, because surgical tooth extractions require incisions, patients with certain clotting conditions may experience excessive bleeding, which could prove hazardous.

The biggest determining factor for healing time is the type of extraction performed. There are two types: simple and surgical. Simple extractions are more straightforward and do not involve severe intervention. Therefore, they heal much more quickly when compared to surgical extractions. If a tooth is embedded deep within the gums, it may require surgery to be removed. Because this involves open incisions, it does take longer to recover from this type of procedure.