Getting Your Smile Back: The Timeline of Gum Healing After Tooth Extraction
How Your Gums Recover In The First 24 Hours: The healing process begins immediately after your dentist removes a tooth. Within the first day, your body forms a blood clot in the empty socket where your tooth used to be. This clot acts like a natural bandage, protecting the bone and nerves underneath. You'll likely experience some bleeding, swelling, and discomfort during this initial period. It's normal for the area to feel tender, and you should avoid touching it with your tongue or fingers to let that protective clot stay in place.