From the 3rd day of tooth extraction, you keep wondering whether this strange taste, pain and swelling in your mouth is normal or something else. You are not a fool, those who feel such uncomfortable tooth extraction get confused after a few days whether this is the healing process or something else.
The positive news for you is that this feeling you are experiencing is a normal experience on day 3. This is a healing process which your body is following, yes there may be some indications which point towards something else.
Today in this guide we will discuss what you experience on day three after tooth extraction, what is important or what is going to happen next and how you can help yourself so that everything heals well whether it is a wisdom teeth removal or routine tooth extraction.
What to Expect 3 Days After Extraction
On the third day, your body is still deep into recovery. The hole is healing over slowly and your body is essentially creating a soft tissue cover to the bone beneath.
- A blood coating has formed over the bone and nerves.
- Some pain, swelling, and a bad taste are normal, which will begin to subside over the next few days.
According to the Mayo Clinic, it is normal to experience some swelling and pain in the first few days after a tooth extraction.
- If you had a wisdom tooth extracted, some bruising and stiffness may also occur.
- You may also see a white or yellowish tissue inside the socket called granulation tissue; this is also part of the healing process.
So, the thing is if you feel a little pain or tightness when you open your mouth, or a little bleeding while brushing then this is also normal, your body is recovering properly.
When Things Don’t Feel Right
Now, not all pain is a cause for alarm, but certain symptoms should prompt you to give your dentist a call.
- If you experience these, don’t take them lightly:
- Pain that is getting worse every second, not better.
- Pain that involves your temple, ear or eye.
- Bleeding that, even a after gentle pressure, doesn’t stop.
- Foul-smelling or foul taste in the mouth.
- White or yellow pus in the socket.
- Swelling increases after the third day instead of decreasing.
- Fever or chills.
These can be signs of dry socket or a severe infection when the blood clot that protects your bone dislodges. Dry socket occurs sometime between the third and fifth day after surgery. If this happens, you should contact your dentist immediately.
What to Eat on Day 3
What you eat and drink will help you recover faster. On the third day, you should eat soft foods and avoid chewy foods.
Here’s what works best:
- Boiled rice or mashed potatoes
- Yogurt, or a smoothie (without straw).
- Scrambled eggs or lukewarm soups.
- Applesauce or mashed bananas.
Skip these for now:
- Crunchy snacks or hard foods.
- Spicy or hot foods.
- Fizzy drinks or alcohol.
- And all those things that you have to eat or swallow carefully.
Keeping Your Mouth Clean
Keep your mouth clean, and gargle frequently. Sometimes we may not like it, but keeping your mouth clean helps speed healing and reduces the risk of infection.
Additionally, You Do this:
- A soft, warm salt rinse (one cup of water + one teaspoon of salt) after meals.
The American Dental Association recommends rinsing your mouth with salt water, which helps kill bacteria and speeds up the healing process.
- You can brush your teeth comfortably without touching the extraction socket.
- If your doctor has prescribed antibiotics, take them on time and complete the full course as directed by the doctor.
Avoid this:
- Don’t spit or forcefully clean your mouth.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco.
- Although it may be tempting, avoid licking or touching the affected area with your tongue or fingers.
Cleanliness is worth the effort, because the cleaner the wound is, the faster it will heal.
Managing Pain and Swelling
By Day Three, you should be feeling pretty good, and the pain will be much less. Although you may still feel a little sore, it won’t be much. Here’s how to handle it:
- Use a cold compress for the first 24 hours, then switch to a warm compress on your jaw to help it relax.
- For faster pain relief, try ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but make sure to consult your dentist before taking them.
- Keep your right hand slightly elevated to sleep, as this can reduce swelling.
The great thing is that by day five most people feel a significant improvement, yes if it is a wisdom tooth then it may take a little extra time to heal.
How Long Does Recovery Last?
The recovery process is different for each individual; some may heal quickly while others may take a little extra time. Normally, tooth extractions take 1 to 3 weeks to heal. However, for wisdom teeth, it can take 2 to 4 weeks, especially if more than one tooth was extracted.
The quickest healers are those who:
- Don’t smoke.
- Keep your mouth thoroughly clean.
- Eat soft and nutritious foods.
- Follow your dentist’s instructions carefully.
The American Dental Association (ADA) says that avoiding tobacco and maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent dry socket infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to feel pain after the 3rd day of tooth extraction?
Yes, mild pain is normal. It should be getting better, not worse. If it goes up, give your dentist a call.
Can I brush my teeth after the third day?
Yes, but don’t go near the extraction site. Brush the other teeth gently.
After how many days can we eat solid food?
You can skip it on the 5th or 6th day, or even a day earlier if you are not having difficulties by eating solid foods.
What is this white tissue in the socket?
This is called granulation tissue, it is a signal of the body’s healing process, do not remove it.
How do I know if I have a socket infection?
A foul odor, taste, or visible pus indicate infection. Always consult your dentist in this case.
Final Thoughts
On the third day, you may feel a slightly strange, gross feeling, but this is an indication of the healing process. If the pain and swelling slowly subside, you’re on the right track. Let the healing process do its work. Take care of your body, and you’ll soon reap the rewards.
