What is the healing process for a tooth extraction?
I had an emergency tooth extraction on Monday. I did not receive an antibiotic nor a pain killer. Today is Thursday. I am having pain that comes and goes. Could that be an infection or part of the healing process?
Some pain is normal, especially if the area is exposed to heat or cold.
You should avoid smoking or drinking through a straw. Both can lead to "dry socket", a post extraction infection that is very painful.
If your pain is increasing instead of gradually decreasing, or you start bleeding or developing increased swelling around the extraction site or on your face/jaw, you need to see a dentist or doctor for followup treatment.