What to Expect After a Tooth Extraction: Care Tips from Your Steveston Dentist

Tooth extractions can sound intimidating, but with the right care and guidance, recovery can be smooth and pain-free. At Family Tree Dental, your trusted dentist in Steveston, Richmond, we walk you through every step—from the procedure to aftercare—to ensure you heal quickly and comfortably.

Whether you're having a wisdom tooth removed, a damaged tooth extracted, or preparing for implants, here’s what you can expect after your extraction and how to take care of your mouth in the days following.

Immediately After the Extraction

After the tooth is removed, your dentist will place a gauze pad over the site to help control bleeding and begin the clotting process. This blood clot is essential for proper healing—so protecting it is key.

Do:

• Bite down gently on the gauze pad for 30–60 minutes

• Rest and keep your head elevated

• Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed

Avoid:

• Rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours

• Drinking through a straw

• Smoking or vaping

• Touching the extraction site with your tongue or fingers

The First 24–48 Hours: Managing Pain and Swelling

Mild discomfort, swelling, and even bruising are normal. At Family Tree Dental, we provide detailed post-op instructions and check in with our patients if needed.

Tips for recovery:

• Apply an ice pack (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) to reduce swelling

• Eat soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, and soup

• Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods

• Drink plenty of water—but skip the straw

Oral Hygiene After Extraction

You should still brush your teeth, just be gentle around the extraction site. Starting the day after your surgery:

• Rinse with warm salt water (½ tsp salt in a glass of water) 2–3 times daily

• Avoid brushing directly over the surgical site until it begins to heal

Healing Timeline

Most patients begin to feel better after 2–3 days. Complete healing of the gum and bone can take a few weeks.

• Day 1–3: Swelling and soreness peak

• Day 4–7: Bleeding should have stopped; discomfort starts to fade

• 1–2 weeks: Gum tissue begins closing over the site

• 4–6 weeks: Bone starts to fill in the space

If you experience increasing pain, persistent bleeding, or symptoms of infection (such as fever or foul taste), contact us right away.

Why Choose Family Tree Dental for Your Extraction?

At Family Tree Dental in Steveston, Richmond, we prioritize gentle, compassionate care before, during, and after every extraction. Our dentists take time to explain each step and tailor aftercare instructions to your specific needs—whether you're a teen having wisdom teeth removed or a senior preparing for dental implants.

We’re proud to serve families across Richmond with modern dental solutions in a calm, supportive environment.

Ready for Your Appointment?

Whether you need a consultation, an urgent extraction, or a second opinion, our team is here to help.

📍 Visit us in Steveston, Richmond

📞 Call 604-370-3132

🌐 Book online at www.dentalfamilytree.com