Post-Op Instructions

It is important to follow instructions after you have oral surgery to ensure proper healing and to avoid complications. As a rule of thumb, you should always wait two hours after surgery before eating to let the anesthesia wear off. Trying to eat before this could result in soft tissue damage because you are not able to feel all of your mouth. The instructions found below are guidelines. After your surgery the doctor or dental assistant will give you full instructions on how to properly recover from surgery.

Root Canal Therapy

You can expect some soreness after a root canal procedure for the first few days. 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 restorative material properly sets. You may also need to take an antibiotic to treat any remaining infection in your tooth. If you notice an increasing amount of pain or tenderness, a reaction to the medication, or the loss of the temporary restoration (filling) call your dentist immediately.

Crowns and Bridges

Before you receive your final crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should 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 after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if desired.

When the final crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth/teeth, and it should feel like your natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know immediately. Caring for your crown or bridge is just like caring for your own teeth- you should brush and floss regularly.

White Fillings (Bonding)

After the anesthesia wears off your tooth may be sensitive. You should avoid hot and cold food or drink for the next few days. After that initial period, your treated tooth should feel as good as new. Continue your normal hygiene plan to ensure that your fillings last for 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 salt water (1 tsp salt/8 oz water) 2-3 times a day. This will relieve the pain and cleanse the area. Brushing and flossing should be continued right after the procedure, but you should brush gently so that you do not further irritate the area. If you experience any swelling or stiffness in the area you can place a cold compress on the area and take some pain relieving medicine. Avoid any hard or chewy foods for 2-3 days after any surgery to ensure the area heals correctly. If you continue to experience pain or swelling after a few days contact your dentist.

Veneers

There may be some sensitivity and/or irritation after the veneer is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if desired.

When a veneer is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, however it should feel like one of your natural tooth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know immediately. When brushing and flossing, you should pay close attention to the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gum line.

Extractions

After the surgery, you can expect the extraction site to bleed for a little while. Gauze will be applied at the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it if/when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours, or if you have any other concerns, you should call your dentist. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying down. Your dentist may prescribe pain medication, so if you become sore take as directed. You can also applyan ice pack externallyfor the pain, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off. 

You will be limited to soft foods for a few days after your surgery. Some recommended foods are:

  • Gelatin
  • Pudding
  • Yogurt
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Ice Cream
  • Thin Soups
  • ...and other food you can eat without chewing.



When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for smoking. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or don't feel that the extraction site is healing properly, call your dentist for a follow-up visit.

 

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