What Happens After a Tooth Extraction?

If you have a tooth extraction coming up, it’s normal to feel a bit anxious or uncertain about the process. After all, it’s not something many of us look forward to. But understanding what happens after the procedure can help ease your mind and set expectations for a smooth recovery. 

A tooth extraction involves the removal of a tooth from its socket in the bone. It may be needed for several reasons, including severe tooth decay, gum disease, overcrowding, or impacted wisdom teeth. Whatever the reason, it’s important to know that your private dentist in Essex will make sure the procedure is as comfortable and painless as possible, and that your recovery will be well managed with the right care. Here’s what you can expect after a tooth extraction with our specialist dental team.  

What to Expect Immediately After the Extraction  

After the extraction, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the extraction site to help control any bleeding. Some bleeding for the first few hours is perfectly normal. Your doctor will tell you to gently bite down on the gauze to apply pressure, as this will help form a blood clot which is vital for proper healing.  

In the first few hours after your tooth extraction, you may also notice some swelling and mild discomfort around the extraction site. Again, this is completely normal. Your dentist may recommend using an ice pack to reduce swelling in the first 24-48 hours, applying it for 15-20 minutes at a time. This will help manage any discomfort and minimise swelling.  

What are the Dos and Don’ts After a Tooth Extraction? 

There are some basic dos and don’ts to follow to support a speedy and smooth recovery, including: 

Do’s: 

• Eat soft foods like soup, yoghurt, and mashed potatoes for the first few days 
• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated 
• Follow your dentist’s advice on taking prescribed medications  

Don’ts: 

• Use straws, as sucking can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing 
• Smoke 
• Engage in strenuous physical activity for 48-72 hours post-procedure 

How to Replace a Missing Tooth After an Extraction 

Here at Perfect Smile Spa, our dentists in Hornchurch, Essex offer a range of high-quality solutions made to restore your smile after a tooth extraction. These solutions include: 

Dental implants: 

The “gold standard” in tooth replacement, our dental implants in Essex replace both the visible tooth and the root for a natural look and feel. Made from titanium, the implants fuse with the bone over time for a secure and long-lasting restoration.  

Cosmetic dentures: 

Using advanced impression technology, we create dentures that look just like natural teeth. For added security, we also offer implant-retained dentures.  

Dental bridges: 

Dental bridges offer a fixed solution to replace one or more missing teeth, using crowns to secure a false tooth between two healthy teeth. For a permanent option, we can also place bridges using dental implants for added stability. 

Why Choose Perfect Smile Spa for Your Tooth Extraction  

Here at Perfect Smile Spa, we know that tooth extractions can be intimidating. Our dedicated team are committed to pain-free tooth extraction to ensure you’re comfortable and at ease throughout the procedure. With compassionate and gentle care throughout every step of the process, we’re here to support you.  

If you’re worried about an upcoming extraction or need advice on how to recover properly, get in touch with our dental team today for the expert care and support you deserve.