Impacted Tooth Extraction Healing Review (Day 7 Post-Op)

From the photo you provided, the extraction site shows a reddish-pink area with some yellowish or whitish tissue. This is likely granulation tissue — a normal part of the healing process.
The absence of a dark empty socket suggests that a dry socket is unlikely. Some redness near the gum line and mild swelling are expected, especially if sutures are still in place. The yellowish area may also be a fibrin layer, a natural “scab” that protects the wound.
Based on appearance, it seems consistent with normal healing on day 7.

Healing Timeline (Typical Extraction with Sutures)

Days 1–3 – Blood clot forms; mild swelling and soreness peak.
Days 4–7 – Granulation tissue develops; slight redness and tightness are common.
Days 8–14 – Soft tissue starts closing; discomfort lessens each day.
Weeks 3–4 – Gum tissue mostly healed.
Weeks 6–12 – Bone remodeling completes.

Headaches and temple pain are often due to jaw muscle strain, inflammation from the extraction, or TMJ stress. If Advil provides relief, that’s a positive sign that inflammation is the likely cause.

When to Revisit Your Dentist

Seek dental evaluation if you notice any of the following:

• Increasing pain after day 5

• Foul smell or bad taste

• Visible hole with exposed bone

• Severe swelling or pus

• Fever or persistent headache

• Numbness in lips, chin, or tongue

If symptoms persist past day 14, possible causes include infection, residual suture irritation, trapped food debris, or early dry socket.

Salt Water Rinse and Care

You may continue gentle salt water rinses two to three times daily (½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water).
Avoid vigorous swishing.
Continue for 2–3 weeks or until the gum tissue fully closes. Long-term daily use is safe but unnecessary once healed.

Comments

Your healing appears normal for day 7.
Continue gentle care and use anti-inflammatory medication as needed.
If headaches persist beyond two weeks or worsen, ask your dentist to check for muscle tension or dry socket.
Expect gradual improvement by days 10–14, when stitches are often removed if not dissolvable.

Next Step

If pain or swelling increases, visit a nearby dental professional.
You can locate one using this directory:
https://cebudentalimplants.com/map-dental-clinic

Bring your extraction date, this photo, and a record of your symptoms and medications.