I recently had a tooth pulled. How long will it take to heal? When can I use tooth paste and drink from a straw?

---

It may take a few weeks for it to completely heal. I usually tell my my patients they can eat and drink what they feel like 24 hours after the procedure. I only ask that they avoid spicy foods, foods with seeds and alcohol.

---

Recent Questions for the dentist.

What is a good antibotic to take for an infected tooth? . . . the dentist's response

It feels like I have some swelling on the inside of my inner lip. It recedes whi. . . the dentist's response

I am a 48 year-old male. I have noticed a gap developing between my two upper fr. . . the dentist's response

I recently had a tooth pulled. How long will it take to heal? When can I use too. . . the dentist's response

Will a tooth that is loose resecure itself over time? . . . the dentist's response

---

Do you have a question? Submit your question here to be considered.

---

DISCLAIMER: Ask a University Dentist is a University of Mississippi Medical Center informational program designed to provide general information on a variety of health topics. It is not a physician referral service, nor is it designed as a "second opinion" source for the initial diagnoses of individual health care providers. It is certainly not intended to take the place of your personal physician - should you or one of your family members have a medical problem, always consult your own physician for diagnosis and treatment.