Following your dental procedure, proper aftercare is essential to promote healing and prevent complications. Below, you'll find specific post-op instructions based on the type of treatment you received. Click on any procedure to jump directly to its post-care guidance:
Extractions
- Apply pressure on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for one hour. If bleeding continues, replace with new gauze and apply pressure for another 45 minutes.
- If supervising children after an extraction, ensure they do not bite their numb lips or tongue.
- Avoid hot foods or drinks on the day of the extraction. Do not rinse, spit, use a straw, drink carbonated beverages, or brush the area.
- You may experience some pain and swelling. Use an ice bag and take any prescribed medication as directed.
- Stick to soft foods and liquids for the first 2-3 days (e.g., soup, yogurt, milkshakes).
- Contact us if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or swelling. In case of emergencies, call 911.
Fillings
- Avoid eating on the new filling for one hour and until numbness has completely worn off.
- If supervising children with new fillings, ensure they don’t bite their numb lips or tongue.
- Cold and heat sensitivity or gum soreness may occur but should subside within a few days.
- Contact our office if you experience pain or discomfort beyond a few days.
Crowns, Bridges, Inlays, and Onlays
- Sensitivity, gum soreness, and slight discomfort are normal after the procedure and should decrease once the permanent crown is placed.
- Avoid chewing until numbness has completely worn off.
- Temporary crowns are more fragile. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods and try to chew on the opposite side.
- Brush normally but be cautious while flossing around temporaries; slide floss out gently.
- If the bite feels uneven or discomfort persists beyond a few days, call our office.
Root Canal Treatment
- You may experience moderate pain, sensitivity to pressure, and gum soreness for a few days.
- Take all prescribed medications as instructed.
- Continue regular brushing and flossing unless otherwise advised by the dentist.
- Follow up promptly for the permanent restoration to prevent potential damage to the treated tooth.
- Contact us if severe pain, swelling, or other issues arise.
Implant Surgery
- Some discomfort and bleeding are expected on the day of surgery.
- Apply ice over the surgical site, 10 minutes on and 5 minutes off, on the day of surgery.
- Take all prescribed medications as instructed.
- Avoid lifting your lips to inspect the area, and avoid brushing near the surgical site until advised.
- Refrain from smoking, spitting, and using a straw for a few days post-surgery.
- Contact our office with any concerns or difficulties. For serious emergencies, call 911.
Denture Delivery
- Some initial discomfort is normal with new dentures.
- Remove dentures every night and store them in a container with water or denture cleaner to allow your gums to rest.
- Clean dentures thoroughly before reinserting them each day.
- It may take a few days to adjust to speaking with new dentures; this will improve as you get used to them.
- Contact us if you experience persistent pain, discomfort, or other concerns.
Need Assistance?
If you have any questions about these instructions or experience unexpected issues, please contact The Smile Center of New Jersey. For urgent medical emergencies, call 911.