🦷 Tooth Extractions – Post-Operative Instructions

First 24 Hours:

  • Bite firmly on the gauze provided for 30–60 minutes to control bleeding.

  • Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using straws—this can dislodge the clot and cause dry socket.

  • Apply an ice pack to the outside of your cheek (20 min on/20 min off) to reduce swelling.

  • Rest and avoid strenuous activity.

Pain & Care:

  • Take prescribed or OTC pain relievers as needed.

  • Eat soft foods (yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes) and avoid chewing near the extraction site.

  • Keep your head elevated when lying down to reduce bleeding and swelling.

Oral Hygiene:

  • Do not brush the extraction area for 24 hours.

  • After 24 hours, gently rinse with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in a cup of water) 2–3 times daily.

Call If You Notice:

  • Excessive bleeding after 24 hours

  • Signs of dry socket (throbbing pain 2–4 days after extraction)

  • Fever or swelling that worsens after a few days

🦷 Dental Implants – Post-Operative Instructions

Day of Surgery:

  • Bite gently on gauze to control bleeding; replace as needed for the first few hours.

  • Rest and avoid strenuous activity.

  • Use an ice pack to reduce swelling (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off).

  • Avoid hot foods and drinks until numbness wears off.

Oral Care:

  • Do not brush the surgical site for 24 hours.

  • Rinse gently with warm salt water starting the next day, 3–4 times daily.

  • Keep the rest of your mouth clean as usual, being careful near the implant.

Eating:

  • Stick to a soft diet for a few days (smoothies, eggs, yogurt, pasta).

  • Avoid chewing near the implant site.

Medication:

  • Take antibiotics (if prescribed) and pain relievers exactly as directed.

Healing Timeline:

  • Swelling and discomfort usually peak 2–3 days post-op.

  • Sutures may dissolve or require removal (we’ll let you know which type you have).

Call If You Notice:

  • Persistent bleeding or pain beyond 3–4 days

  • Signs of infection (swelling, fever, pus)

  • A loose implant or unusual movement

🦷 Root Canal Therapy – Post-Operative Instructions

What to Expect:

  • Mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days is normal.

  • If a temporary filling was placed, avoid chewing on that tooth until the permanent crown is placed.

Care Tips:

  • Take any prescribed medications as directed.

  • Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed.

  • Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the treated tooth.

  • Brush and floss gently around the area.

When to Call Us:

  • If you have severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection (fever, pus, bad taste), contact our office immediately

🦷 Dental Crowns – Post-Operative Instructions

After a Temporary Crown:

  • Avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge or crack the temporary.

  • If the temporary comes off, call us so we can re-cement it.

  • You may experience slight sensitivity—this is normal.

After a Permanent Crown:

  • It may feel slightly different for a few days. Your bite will adjust naturally.

  • Resume normal brushing and flossing—but be gentle near the crown.

  • Avoid chewing on hard objects (ice, pens, hard candy) to prolong the life of your crown.

Call Us If:

  • Your bite feels off after a few days

  • You feel persistent pain or pressure

  • The crown feels loose