How to fix sunken face after tooth extraction?
A sunken appearance in the face after tooth extraction is usually due to swelling, not permanent bone loss. Swelling peaks around 48–72 hours and then gradually subsides. Applying ice packs to the outside of your face for the first 48 hours, keeping your head elevated, and resting helps minimise swelling. As the swelling resolves, your face will return to its normal shape.
If the sunken look is due to long‑term bone loss from missing teeth (not immediate post‑extraction swelling), options include dental implants, bone grafting, or other prosthetic replacements. These can restore volume and support facial structures. Discuss any concerns about facial changes with your dentist; they can advise whether the cause is temporary swelling or something that may require treatment.
• Sunken appearance immediately after extraction is usually swelling, which resolves in about a week
• Use ice packs and keep your head elevated to reduce swelling
• For permanent bone loss, options like implants or bone grafting can restore facial contours
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Related Questions
When can I eat after tooth extraction?
You can start eating soft foods a few hours after a tooth extraction, once the anaesthesia has worn off and you can feel your mouth. Stick to cool, soft items like yoghurt, soup, or mashed potatoes for the first 24 hours, and avoid chewing on the side of the extraction. - Wait until the anaesthesia wears off completely before eating. - Start with soft, cool foods like yoghurt, soup, or mashed potatoes. - Avoid chewing on the extraction side for the first few days.
How soon can I drink water after tooth extraction?
You can drink water shortly after a tooth extraction, but wait until the gauze is removed and the anaesthesia has worn off so you don’t accidentally bite your cheek. Drink slowly, avoid using a straw, and do not swish vigorously to protect the blood clot. - Drink water once the gauze is out and you can feel your mouth. - Do not use a straw; sip gently from a glass. - Avoid carbonated, hot, or alcoholic drinks for the first 24 hours.
How long after tooth extraction can I eat?
You can eat soft foods a few hours after the extraction, once the local anaesthesia has worn off. Start with cool, soft items like yoghurt, pudding, or soup, and avoid chewing directly on the extraction site for the first few days. - Wait until the anaesthesia has worn off before eating. - Choose soft, cool foods for the first 24–48 hours. - Avoid chewing on the extraction side until tenderness subsides.
How long does a tooth extraction take to heal?
The initial healing of a tooth extraction takes about 7–10 days, during which the gum tissue closes over the socket. Complete bone healing takes several weeks to months, but most people feel comfortable and can resume normal activities within a few days. - Gum healing takes 1–2 weeks; bone healing takes several months. - Most discomfort resolves within 3–5 days. - Follow aftercare instructions carefully to avoid complications like dry socket.
