Recovery Time
In general, the healing process after a tooth extraction takes around three to four weeks. Depending on the type of procedure performed, the recovery time may vary from one patient to another. A simple extraction can heal within a few days, but more complex procedures may take as long as a week or more. Patients are encouraged to follow the oral surgeon's instructions to minimize the risk of complications. Following these guidelines can help patients recover as quickly as possible.
For the first 24 hours after your extraction, you can apply ice to reduce swelling and avoid brushing your teeth. Use anti-inflammatory medicines to relieve the pain. You can also use a salt water solution to rinse your mouth after meals to prevent infection. You should also avoid chewy or hard foods for a week or two after your tooth extraction. Your dentist will provide you with further instructions about what to eat and drink. If your mouth is sore, you should only consume soft foods.
Cost
A simple tooth extraction can cost $75 to $200, while a more involved surgical procedure can cost up to $4,000. The price of dental procedures generally reflects the standard cost of living in the area. In many cases, dental insurance will cover these costs, but the costs can be significantly higher if you don't have coverage. Also, keep in mind that the price of a simple extraction may depend on the type of anesthesia used, which can vary widely.
Many states cover the cost of tooth extractions as an out-of-network benefit for individuals without dental insurance. Those over 65, people caring for children, and people with disabilities can often qualify for Medicaid. But it is important to note that dental insurances aren't always a good fit, and yearly maximums can easily exceed coverage. Many policies require a yearlong waiting period and have exclusions based on pre-existing conditions.
Preparation
You should avoid vigorous activities after a tooth extraction. Although non-surgical procedures generally heal quickly, vigorous rinsing can loosen blood clots and cause excessive bleeding. In addition to risking infection, excessive rinsing may also irritate the mouth. You should wait 24 hours before attempting to brush the area where your tooth was extracted. Then, you can resume normal activities. After the procedure, you should be able to eat soft foods and drink warm liquids. Before extraction, you will need to receive a sedative or nitrous anesthesia.
Your dentist will administer both types of anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area surrounding the tooth, while IV or nitrous sedation is used for surgical extractions. Your dentist will then apply firm pressure to the tooth, which will help expand the tooth socket.