### When Can You Resume Exercise After Tooth Extraction in Chinese Mainland?

　　In recent years, many people have opted to travel to Chinese Mainland for dental procedures like tooth extraction. The reasons are simple: finding a convenient and professional dentist while saving time and effort. However, tooth extraction is a delicate medical procedure, and recovery requires proper care—it’s not just a matter of "pulling it out and moving on." One common concern among patients is: **When can I safely resume exercise after tooth extraction?** This question is especially relevant for those who regularly hit the gym, go running, or play sports. The key lies in monitoring your body’s recovery rather than rushing back into physical activity.

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　　### Immediate Post-Extraction Care: The First 24 Hours

　　During the first day after tooth extraction, exercise is off the table—and even simple actions like rinsing your mouth or spitting require caution. After a tooth is removed, a fresh wound is left on the gum, and your body naturally forms a blood clot to protect it. If this blood clot dislodges prematurely, it can lead to a painful condition called **dry socket**, which delays healing and increases discomfort.

　　For this reason, dentists often advise resting for the first one to two days and avoiding activities that elevate your blood pressure or accelerate blood circulation, such as running, weightlifting, or cycling. During this period, it’s best to stay home, drink plenty of lukewarm water, and avoid consuming beverages that are too hot or cold.

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　　### Light Activity: Day 2 to Day 3

　　By the second or third day, if you’re experiencing no significant pain, bleeding has stopped, and swelling has subsided, you may cautiously resume light daily activities such as walking or gentle stretching. However, strenuous exercise is still discouraged, as the wound inside your mouth is still healing. Pay close attention to your body’s signals—if you notice minor bleeding or increased swelling during light activity, stop immediately. Don’t push through discomfort, as irritating the wound can prolong your recovery.

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　　### Moderate Exercise: Day 5 to Day 7

　　In most cases, the wound starts to stabilize around five to seven days post-extraction. If your procedure involved a simple tooth removal, such as a front tooth or a shallow molar, you can gradually return to moderate exercise after about a week. Start with low-impact activities like jogging, yoga, or Pilates, and ensure you’re free of any discomfort or unusual sensations in your mouth before increasing intensity.

　　However, if you had a more complex extraction—such as wisdom tooth removal, particularly lower wisdom teeth or procedures requiring surgical intervention—your recovery time will likely be longer. In these cases, it’s best to wait 10 days or even two weeks before attempting moderate exercise. Always consult your dentis

　　t during follow-up appointments to confirm your healing progress before engaging in strenuous activities.

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　　### High-Intensity Workouts: Proceed with Caution

　　Different types of exercise impact your body in various ways, and some activities pose higher risks during recovery. For example:

　　- **Weightlifting or High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT):** These exercises can cause sudden spikes in blood pressure, increasing the risk of bleeding at the extraction site.

　　- **Swimming:** Pools may contain bacteria that heighten the risk of infection in your oral wound.

　　- **Contact Sports (e.g., basketball, boxing):** Physical contact increases the likelihood of accidental trauma to your face or jaw, which can disrupt the healing process.

　　Regardless of your preferred workout, always tailor your exercise routine to your recovery status and follow your dentist’s recommendations. Avoid guessing or assuming you’re ready to return to high-intensity activities prematurely.

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　　### Diet and Oral Hygiene: Supporting Faster Recovery

　　Your diet plays a crucial role in speeding up recovery. During the first few days after tooth extraction, stick to soft, easy-to-swallow foods like porridge, soup, scrambled eggs, and tofu. Avoid spicy, salty, or hard foods that can irritate the wound. A balanced diet helps replenish energy and promotes healing.

　　Maintaining oral hygiene is equally important. Gently rinse your mouth with medicated mouthwash or lukewarm water as instructed by your dentist, but avoid vigorous swishing. Brush your teeth carefully, ensuring you don’t disturb the extraction site, to prevent infection.

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　　### When to Seek Medical Attention

　　If you experience persistent bleeding, swelling that doesn’t subside, or difficulty opening your mouth several days after the procedure, contact your dentist immediately. Avoid self-medicating with painkillers or ignoring symptoms, as every individual’s recovery timeline varies. The best approach is to progress gradually and ensure your mouth has fully healed before resuming your regular exercise routine.

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　　### Conclusion: Patience Pays Off

　　Resuming exercise after tooth extraction requires patience and attentiveness. In general, light activities can be resumed within a week, while high-intensity workouts should wait until at least 10 days post-procedure. By giving your body enough time to recover and adhering to your dentist’s care instructions, you’ll be able to safely return to your active lifestyle in no time. Tooth extraction may seem like a minor procedure, but proper aftercare is the smartest way to ensure smooth healing and avoid complications.

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　　This article is designed to provide practical advice for patients recovering from tooth extraction, with a focus on safe exercise practices and optimal recovery strategies. Follow these tips to protect your oral health and get back to your fitness routine confidently!