The wound looks like white rotten meat the day after tooth extraction.

After tooth extraction, the wound may appear as white, rotten-looking tissue. This could be due to ischemia of the interdental papilla, a protective pseudomembrane, granulation tissue proliferation, or blood clot formation, all of which typically resolve gradually as the wound heals. Additionally, it could also indicate inflammation or ulceration at the wound site. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may involve general care or medication.

I. Non-disease Factors

1. Interdental Papilla Ischemia
Prolonged tooth extraction may damage the interdental papilla, causing it to become ischemic and appear pale or white. This condition resolves naturally as the wound heals and does not require specific treatment.

2. Protective Pseudomembrane
Following tooth extraction, a protective pseudomembrane may form over the wound site. If there is no redness, swelling, heat, pain, or foul odor, no intervention is necessary—the membrane will shed on its own as healing progresses. However, if symptoms such as swelling or pain develop, prompt medical attention is needed for anti-inflammatory treatment, such as oral metronidazole or ibuprofen (e.g., Fenbiduo).

3. Granulation Tissue Proliferation
This is a normal part of the healing process after tooth extraction, indicating that the wound is progressively recovering. No additional treatment is required.

4. Blood Clot
The blood clot serves both to seal the extraction socket and as an early sign of wound healing. There is no need for excessive concern or special treatment.

II. Disease-related Factors

1. Inflammatory Infection
If the wound emits a foul odor and is accompanied by redness, swelling, and pain, this may indicate an infection. Prompt medical evaluation is essential to prevent worsening symptoms or serious complications such as dry socket. Under medical guidance, patients may take anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications such as cephalosporins, penicillin, or ibuprofen. The wound can also be thoroughly rinsed with physiological saline or hydrogen peroxide to prevent further infection.

2. Ulceration
Injury to the gingiva during tooth extraction may lead to bleeding and edema. Subsequent irritation from food may result in ulcer formation, presenting as white, rotten-like tissue in the wound area. Treatment may include using oral ulcer patches or mouth rinses.

After tooth extraction, maintaining good oral hygiene is important. Rinse the mouth promptly after meals to prevent food debris from entering the wound and causing discomfort. Maintain a light diet and avoid spicy, irritating, excessively hot, or cold foods. If pain or swelling at the extraction site worsens, seek medical attention promptly to prevent symptom progression.