How Long Does Pain Last After A Tooth Extraction Procedure?

Tooth extraction is a big procedure. Losing a tooth is never easy, and the thought of someone pulling out your tooth from its roots is no less than horrifying. Although thankfully, during the actual procedure, the dentist provides anesthesia to numb the area. This way, any hesitation you might have about the unbearable ache of tooth extraction is dispelled. But unfortunately, that doesn’t mean the pain just vanishes. Post-extraction tooth pain is just as gut-wrenching and can be extremely overwhelming. — So, how long does the pain after tooth extraction last, and is there any way to get rid of it? In order to find out, carry on reading this blog.

How Long Does Pain Last After Tooth Extraction?

Generally, everyone experiences pain differently, and tooth extraction pain is no different. It doesn’t matter if it’s the intensity or the lifespan; as long as you follow your dentist’s instructions, you won’t have anything to worry about.

While some people only feel the discomfort for a day, others can experience the painful effects for 3 to 5 days. However, for people who have very low pain tolerance, the ache might remain for up to a week or two until the surgical site has completely healed.

What Causes Pain to Arise After Tooth Extraction?

Post-tooth extraction pain is usually linked to your gums. More specifically, gum inflammation. However, there are also other reasons you might be experiencing the painful effects, especially if the surgery site remains sore and tender for over a week. Identifying the root cause can help you seek treatment in time and minimize the discomfort. Here are some of the most common reasons that lead to pain after tooth extraction.

1. Ruptured Sinus
   Your sinuses are located right above the upper teeth. Thus, in case of a complicated extraction procedure, especially a molar, your sinuses might get injured since the sinus lining is pretty thin.
2. Osteonecrosis
   This usually occurs in serious cases of oral cancer when a part of your bone dies or fails to heal due to internal troubles. Contact your dentist if you continue to experience pain and discomfort for more than six weeks.
3. Dry Socket
   Usually, after tooth extraction, your mouth begins to form a blood clot over the surgery site to keep it from drying out. However, if the blood clot gets loose or falls out, it could leave the extraction site exposed, further causing it to dry out.
4. Injured Gums
   Gums are incredibly fragile and sensitive. The smallest cut or injury during the procedure can cause pain as well as swelling.

Tips to Overcome Pain After Tooth Extraction

If you had your tooth removed but are tired of the constant ache that comes with it, don’t worry. Simply follow the instructions given by your dentist and incorporate the tips mentioned below to reduce the pain:

1. Avoid using straws for drinks as that could dry the mouth.
2. Stay away from carbonated or fizzy drinks.
3. Follow a strict soft-food diet for a few weeks after the extraction.
4. Do not smoke, vape, or drink alcohol directly after tooth extraction.
5. Take otc pain relievers to soothe the pain.
6. Consult your dentist for more information.
7. Maintain good oral hygiene to avoid complications.

Bottom Line

To put it shortly, pain after tooth extraction is pretty common. Whether it lasts for a day or a few weeks, it depends on you. Although as long as you take good care of your oral health, the pain will go away on its own. For more information on tooth extractions, contact Dr. Neela Jeevan Ghatnekar at (714) 921-9252 or drop by our clinic at 8101 E Kaiser Blvd #150, Anaheim, CA 92808.