Most patients fully recover from a tooth extraction in two to three weeks. However, most people return to their normal daily activities within 24 to 72 hours after surgery.
Your team at Bryant Family Dentistry will provide you with comprehensive instructions on caring for yourself after tooth extraction. Following these instructions will help you have a smooth and seamless recovery.
We're also here to support throughout your recovery process should questions and concerns arise. You can contact our team at (865) 693-7631 at any time with questions.
General Tips for Recovering From a Tooth Extraction in Knoxville
An essential thing to remember during the recovery process is that immediately after your surgery, your goal will be to contain the bleeding. You'll do this by biting down on gauze until it stops. Report any excessive bleeding that won't stop to your dentist right away.
Eat soft foods for the first few days to avoid irritating the tissue around your extraction site. Here are some ideas for tasty soft foods you can consume at room temperature:
- Oatmeal
- Applesauce
- Soup
- Smoothies
- Scrambled eggs
Avoid spicy foods for 72 hours after surgery to minimize irritation to your extraction site.
Other things to avoid for the first 72 hours are vigorous exercise, smoking and tobacco use, and drinking through straws. These are activities that could dislodge the blood clot protecting your extraction site.
Don't hesitate to contact our team with questions or concerns about your tooth extraction.