Les Masterson is a deputy editor and insurance analyst at Forbes Advisor. He has been a journalist, reporter, editor and content creator for more than 25 years. He has covered insurance for a decade, ...

During tooth extraction recovery, people must maintain the blood clot that forms in the tooth socket. Aftercare may involve rest, cold compresses, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication.

Sometimes, a tooth can become so severely damaged or infected that your dentist might discuss a couple of different kinds of treatment plans with you. The first is a root canal, and the other is a ...