Post-Op Instructions

Post-Procedure Instructions

It is essential to follow our instructions carefully after oral surgery or any dental procedure to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. As a general rule, we recommend waiting at least two hours after surgery before eating to allow the anesthesia to wear off. Trying to eat before this could result in soft tissue damage because you are not able to feel your mouth. After your procedure, we will provide you with detailed instructions on how to properly recover. The instructions below are guidelines.

Crowns & Bridges

Before you receive your permanent crown or bridge, you will first receive a temporary restoration, which is not as sturdy as the permanent version. To keep it from coming loose, be careful when brushing your teeth and eating. You should brush the area gently and avoid pulling on the tooth when flossing. The same goes for eating. Avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.

There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent restoration is placed. This is normal and will subside once the gum tissue has healed. A warm saltwater rinse will help, and you can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever if the pain persists.

After your permanent crown or bridge is placed, it may feel a little awkward for a few days as your mouth adjusts. It should feel like one of your natural teeth within a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, call us. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. You should brush and floss as directed.

Root Canal Therapy

You can expect soreness for a few days after a root canal. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed so you do not irritate the area and also to ensure that the temporary restoration sets correctly. You will also need to take an antibiotic to treat any remaining infection in your tooth. If you have increasing pain or tenderness, a reaction to the medication, or lose the temporary restoration, call us immediately.

Tooth-Colored Fillings (Bonding)

After the anesthesia wears off, your teeth will be sensitive. You should avoid consuming hot and cold foods or drinks for the next few days. After an initial period, your teeth will feel as good as new. Continue your normal hygiene plan to ensure your fillings last a long time.

Scaling and Root Planing

After this procedure, your gums will probably be slightly sore and irritated for a few days. You should rinse your mouth with warm saltwater (1 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of water) 2 to 3 times a day to relieve the pain and cleanse the area. You should continue brushing and flossing immediately after the procedure, being gentle to avoid further irritation. If you experience any swelling or stiffness, apply a cold compress to the area and take an over-the-counter pain reliever. Avoid hard or chewy foods for 2 to 3 days after surgery to ensure proper healing. If you continue to experience pain or swelling after a few days, contact us.

Veneers

Before you receive your permanent veneers, you will first receive a temporary restoration. This temporary restoration will not be as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be cautious when brushing your teeth and eating. Be gentle and do not pull up on the tooth when flossing because the temporary could become dislodged. When eating, avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary.

You may experience sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent veneers are placed, which is normal and should subside after you heal. A warm saltwater rinse will help, and you can also take an over-the-counter pain medication if needed.

When veneers are placed, you may need a few days to get used to them. Your mouth needs to adjust, and you should feel normal in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should contact us. When brushing and flossing, pay close attention to the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gum line.

Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction, you will need to rest. Someone will need to drive you home because of the anesthesia. You can expect the extraction site to bleed for a little while after the surgery. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours, you should call us. Rest when you return home, with your head propped up on a pillow. If your mouth is sore, you can take the pain medication we prescribed. You may also want to use an ice pack for the pain. We may also provide you with a cleaning solution to clean the extraction site.

Eat foods that don’t require chewing for the first 24 to 48 hours after tooth extraction. Some options to consider are:

Gelatin
Pudding
Yogurt
Mashed potatoes
Ice cream
Thin soup or broth
Protein or meal replacement shakes

When drinking, be sure to avoid using a straw, as the sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for smoking.

If you have persistent pain, bleeding, or irritation, or you don’t feel that the extraction site is healing properly, call us right away.

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