After a tooth extraction, mild pain, slight swelling, and minor bleeding for 1 to 3 days is normal. However, pain that worsens after Day 3, bad odor, exposed bone, or radiating ear pain may indicate dry socket and requires dental evaluation.

Introduction

After a tooth extraction, some pain, swelling, and discomfort are normal. However, many busy workers return to work immediately and ignore early warning signs. They assume the pain is part of healing.

Sometimes it is normal healing.
Sometimes it is dry socket or infection.

After a tooth extraction, many patients ask:

“Is this dry socket or infection?”
“Why is my pain getting worse?”

For busy workers, the common mistake is waiting.

They continue working long shifts.
They only file a long day off when the pain becomes unbearable.

By then, treatment becomes more complicated — and more expensive.

Understanding the difference early can save you time, money, and stress.

What Is Dry Socket?

Dry socket (alveolar osteitis) happens when the protective blood clot falls out or dissolves too early.

The honest answer:
Healing depends on the type of extraction, your health, and how well you follow aftercare instructions.

For most patients, initial healing takes 1 to 2 weeks.
Complete bone healing can take 3 to 6 months.

Ignoring proper care can delay healing — and cost you more money later.

Tooth Extraction Healing Timeline (Day-by-Day Analysis)

First 24 Hours

• Blood clot forms in the socket
• Mild bleeding
• Swelling begins
• Mild to moderate pain

Severe Pain 3 Days After Tooth Extraction – Is This Normal?

Many patients search on Google:

“Why do I have severe pain 3 days after tooth extraction?”
“Is it normal to have pain 3 days after pulling a tooth?”

The answer:
 Mild discomfort is normal.
 Severe, throbbing, worsening pain is NOT normal.

If the pain becomes stronger on Day 3 instead of improving, it may be a sign of dry socket or infection.