How Long Does It Take for Wisdom Tooth Extraction to Heal?

How long does it take to heal after wisdom tooth extraction?

I had my wisdom tooth extracted at a clinic near my home on March 10th, and now, when I check the extraction site, it still hasn't fully healed.
I'm wondering if rinsing my mouth and spitting out the blood after dinner on the night of the extraction could be the reason.
I've read online that blood helps to clot at the wound site and aids in healing, and now that my wound is hardly bleeding, does this mean it cannot heal? Or does it just need more time? How long does it typically take for complete healing? Thank you.

Mr. Guo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/15

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

Generally, it takes about one month for the soft tissue to fully heal after wisdom tooth extraction, while the hard tissue (alveolar bone) takes approximately two months for complete healing.
If there is pain or discomfort at the wound site, you should return to the dentist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2017/03/15

More Info

After a wisdom tooth extraction, the healing process can vary significantly from person to person, but generally, the initial healing phase takes about one to two weeks. During this time, the gum tissue begins to close over the extraction site, and any swelling or discomfort typically decreases. However, complete healing of the bone and soft tissue can take several months.

In your case, since you had your wisdom tooth extracted on March 10 and are still observing that the socket has not fully healed, it is important to consider several factors that could affect the healing process. Firstly, the act of rinsing your mouth vigorously immediately after the extraction can indeed disrupt the blood clot that forms in the socket. This clot is crucial for the healing process as it protects the underlying bone and nerves, and it also serves as a foundation for new tissue growth. If the clot is dislodged, it can lead to a condition known as dry socket (alveolar osteitis), which can be quite painful and delay healing.

If you are not experiencing any significant pain or discomfort, and the site is not showing signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or pus), it may simply be a matter of your body taking a bit longer to heal. Healing times can be influenced by factors such as age, overall health, smoking status, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.

Typically, after about one week, most patients can return to normal activities, including brushing their teeth, but they should still be cautious around the extraction site. Full healing, where the bone and soft tissue have completely regenerated, can take anywhere from three to six months. During this time, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene and follow any specific instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon.

If you are concerned about the healing process or if you notice any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to follow up with your dentist. They can assess the site to ensure that healing is progressing as expected and rule out any complications. In some cases, additional treatments may be necessary to promote healing or address any issues that may arise.

In summary, while initial healing after wisdom tooth extraction can take about one to two weeks, complete healing may take several months. If you have concerns about your healing process, especially after rinsing your mouth post-extraction, it is best to consult with your dentist for an evaluation and personalized advice.

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