If pain persists after a tooth extraction, when should the patient seek review?

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Multiple Choice

If pain persists after a tooth extraction, when should the patient seek review?

Explanation:
Pain after a tooth extraction is expected for the first couple of days as the socket heals. If pain persists beyond about two to three days, it suggests a complication such as a dry socket or an infection and should be reviewed. This 2–3 day window is when these issues commonly become evident and are most manageable. Visiting sooner, around 24 hours, isn’t usually necessary unless there are alarming signs, while waiting a week or a month would risk delaying treatment for problems that can escalate.

Pain after a tooth extraction is expected for the first couple of days as the socket heals. If pain persists beyond about two to three days, it suggests a complication such as a dry socket or an infection and should be reviewed. This 2–3 day window is when these issues commonly become evident and are most manageable. Visiting sooner, around 24 hours, isn’t usually necessary unless there are alarming signs, while waiting a week or a month would risk delaying treatment for problems that can escalate.

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