Patient Care

Consents & Post-Op
Instructions

Proper aftercare is essential for optimal healing. Below you'll find detailed instructions for your specific procedure and guidance on when to contact us.

After a Filling

Composite or amalgam restoration care

▾
  • • Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth with the filling for at least 24 hours
  • • Do not consume hard, sticky, or very hot foods or beverages for the first 24 hours
  • • Sensitivity to cold or pressure is normal and should subside within a few days
  • • If sensitivity persists beyond one week, contact our office
  • • Maintain normal oral hygiene; brushing and flossing are safe
  • • The bite may feel slightly high. contact us if discomfort continues

After a Crown or Bridge

Restoration care and expectations

▾
  • • Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until the permanent restoration is in place
  • • Temporary crowns are delicate. avoid sticky or hard foods
  • • Brush gently around the crown; you may floss normally (avoid pulling the floss out between teeth; slide it out from the side)
  • • Mild sensitivity and gum tenderness are normal for a few days
  • • The bite may require adjustment. contact us if it feels too high or uncomfortable
  • • Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for the first week

After a Root Canal

Endodontic treatment recovery

▾
  • • Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration (crown) is placed
  • • Some sensitivity, soreness, and throbbing are normal for several days
  • • Do not eat or drink while your mouth is still numb to prevent biting your cheek or tongue
  • • Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can help manage discomfort
  • • Apply ice packs for 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, during the first 24 hours
  • • Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 3–5 days
  • • If severe pain develops or does not improve within 3–5 days, contact us immediately

After an Extraction or Oral Surgery

Post-surgical healing guidance

▾
  • • Bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding
  • • Do not disturb the surgical site; avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the area for 24 hours
  • • Swelling typically peaks on days 2–3 and gradually improves
  • • Apply ice for the first 24 hours (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off)
  • • After 24 hours, apply warm compresses to aid healing
  • • Take prescribed antibiotics as directed; complete the entire course
  • • Sleep with your head elevated on 2–3 pillows for the first few nights
  • • Eat soft, cool foods (yogurt, smoothies, ice cream) for the first few days
  • • Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 1 week
  • • Light rinsing with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz water) can begin after 24 hours

After Teeth Whitening

Professional whitening care

▾
  • • Avoid dark-colored foods and beverages for 24–48 hours (coffee, tea, red wine, berries)
  • • Do not smoke for at least 48 hours
  • • Use a white toothpaste (colored toothpastes can stain teeth)
  • • Teeth sensitivity is common; use sensitivity toothpaste and avoid very hot or cold foods/drinks
  • • Wait at least 30 minutes after whitening before eating or drinking
  • • Maintain results with touch-up trays as recommended
  • • Results typically last 6–12 months with proper care

After Dental Implant Surgery

Implant placement and osseointegration care

▾
  • • Keep the surgical site undisturbed for the first week
  • • Bite on gauze for 60 minutes after surgery
  • • Use ice packs for the first 24–48 hours to minimize swelling
  • • Sleep elevated for the first 3 nights
  • • Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the surgical site for 1 week
  • • After 1 week, rinse gently with warm salt water 4–5 times daily
  • • Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 2 weeks
  • • Eat soft foods for at least 2 weeks; avoid chewing near the implant site
  • • Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 1 week
  • • Swelling typically peaks on day 3 and improves over 2–3 weeks
  • • Take prescribed medications exactly as directed
  • • Attend all follow-up appointments. osseointegration (bone fusion) typically takes 3–6 months

After Periodontal (Gum) Treatment

Gum disease scaling and root planing

▾
  • • Mild bleeding and sensitivity are normal for 24–48 hours
  • • Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle around treated areas
  • • Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 oz water) 3–4 times daily
  • • Avoid hot, spicy, or hard foods for 48 hours
  • • Do not smoke for at least 1 week (smoking impairs healing)
  • • Take prescribed antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses as directed
  • • Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort
  • • Avoid flossing for 1 week unless instructed otherwise
  • • Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing

Essential Aftercare

General Care Tips

Medication & Pain Management

Take all prescribed medications as directed. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help. If pain is severe or persistent, contact us immediately.

Oral Hygiene

Maintain good oral hygiene after your procedure. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle around treated areas. Ask us about when it's safe to resume normal brushing and flossing.

Diet & Nutrition

Eat soft, cool foods for the first few days. Avoid hot, hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that could irritate the area. Stay hydrated and maintain good nutrition for faster healing.

Swelling & Bruising

Some swelling and bruising are normal. Ice helps the first 24 hours, then switch to warm compresses. Keep your head elevated while sleeping and avoid strenuous activity.

Lifestyle Restrictions

Avoid smoking and alcohol as they can impair healing. Limit strenuous exercise and sports for several days. Follow any additional restrictions your doctor provided.

Follow-Up Care

Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. These visits are crucial to monitor healing and ensure proper recovery. Don't hesitate to contact us with questions.

Important

When to Call Us

If you experience any of the following, contact our office immediately.

Signs of Infection or Complications

  • • Fever above 101°F (38.3°C)
  • • Excessive swelling that worsens after 3 days
  • • Pus or discharge from the surgical site
  • • Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication
  • • Difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • • Redness or warmth spreading from the site
  • • Signs of allergic reaction to medication

Other Concerns

  • • Excessive bleeding that doesn't stop after 2 hours
  • • Reaction to anesthesia or medications
  • • Numbness or tingling that doesn't resolve
  • • Damage to temporary restorations
  • • Questions about your recovery or instructions
  • • Any concern about the healing process

Ready for Your Next Step?

Let's Schedule Your Care

If you have any questions about your post-operative care or are ready to schedule your next appointment, we're here to help. Contact our team or book directly online.

Book Your Appointment New Patient Info