Oral health information Common questions Why am I in pain after a tooth extraction? Generally any discomfort after an extraction does not last for long and can easily be controlled by the painkillers you would normally take for a headache. If it lasts any longer than 24 hours you should go back to your dental team for advice. Sometimes pain may occur 3-4 days after the extraction when a blood clot has not formed properly in the extraction socket and the bone becomes infected. You will need to go back to your dentist, who will dress the socket and/or give you antibiotics to relive the symptoms of the infection.. More information: What to do after a tooth extraction Manage Cookie Preferences