Tooth Extraction: Procedure and Aftercare
If you need the tooth extracted, your dentist will numb the area, so you don't feel any discomfort during the procedure. Next, they'll use a lever-like appliance known as an elevator to loosen your tooth while it's still in its socket. Forceps will then officially extract the tooth. You can expect to feel some pressure while this happens, but nothing that takes away your overall comfort level.
After your tooth is extracted, you'll bite on a piece of gauze for up to 45 minutes to clot the blood flow that naturally occurs. Light bleeding for about 24 hours after the procedure is normal and a bit of facial swelling, but ice packs can help reduce the inflammation. When eating again, stick to soft, cool foods that don't irritate your extraction site, and as you heal, you can gradually get back to your regular diet.
In general, it can take at least two weeks for the extraction site to heal, during which time you should gently brush your teeth to avoid further irritation.