How long does pain last after tooth extraction?

How long does pain last after a tooth extraction?

Sources differ in detail but agree on the pattern. Cleveland Clinic says discomfort is normal, that day three is usually the worst, and that side effects such as bleeding, bruising, discomfort and swelling typically resolve within a week. The NHS says pain and swelling usually start to ease after one to two days, and that stiffness, bruising and discomfort when chewing or swallowing can last up to two weeks. Healthline's wisdom teeth recovery guide says swelling, pain and bruising may peak around days 2 to 4, and that by about day 7 most people are near the end of recovery, with up to two weeks for impacted or complicated teeth. The Kent NHS leaflet says soreness may last a day or two.

Does a tooth extraction hurt?

Not during the procedure. Cleveland Clinic says local anesthesia numbs the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue, and that sedation options are discussed at the consultation and can help with dental anxiety. A single extraction usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You may feel pressure, and the numbness wears off after a few hours, which is when soreness begins. If you feel pain during the procedure, tell your dentist so they can add more anesthetic.

What is the best painkiller after an extraction?

The sources we read mention the common over-the-counter options but do not rank them. The NHS recovery page says paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with pain. Healthline's sleep guide says to take prescribed pain relievers as directed and that if none are prescribed, ibuprofen may be an option if your surgeon approves and you have no conditions that interfere with it. Cleveland Clinic says to avoid aspirin, which thins the blood and can prolong bleeding, and the Kent leaflet advises avoiding aspirin unless it was prescribed for a heart condition, in which case tell your dentist. Follow the label or your pharmacist's advice, never exceed the dose, and ask your surgeon which suits you, especially if you have asthma, stomach problems or take other medicines.

Other ways to ease pain

Cleveland Clinic says to use a wrapped ice pack for 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off several times a day in the first days, and to keep your head raised. Eat soft foods, avoid straws and smoking, and rinse gently after the first 24 hours. Our guides on swelling and on sleeping after wisdom teeth removal cover these in more detail.

Pain on day 3 and beyond

Pain around days 2 to 3 is expected. Pain that is getting worse rather than better after day 3 is the warning sign. Healthline says dry socket can occur around days 3 to 5 and that pain may spread to the ear, eye, temple or neck, and the Hull NHS leaflet says pain returning 3 to 10 days after surgery may indicate dry socket. Cleveland Clinic says dry socket usually develops within the first three days and that if no symptoms appear by day five you are likely in the clear. See our dry socket guide for how it is treated.

Infection signs

Cleveland Clinic lists fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, drainage (pus) at the extraction site and severe pain that does not improve with medication as reasons to call your dentist. The NHS says to contact an urgent dentist or NHS 111 for bleeding that will not stop, severe or worsening pain and swelling that painkillers do not help, or pain with a bad taste, a high temperature or feeling unwell.

How to pull a tooth without pain

Do not try to pull an adult tooth yourself. The sources we read describe no safe home method for pulling a tooth. Cleveland Clinic says a loose permanent tooth is never typical and needs a dentist, and that a loose baby tooth should be left to fall out, with gentle wiggling only. A dentist can remove a tooth under local anesthesia, with or without sedation, so it should not hurt.

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