POST-OP INSTRUCTIONS

  The following instructions should be followed closely except when overruled by specific procedural instructions. The instructions for post-op should be followed to not only ensure a high success rate but more importantly your health and wellness. Notify your Dr. of any unusual changes in your condition and feel free to call the office with any questions. A common practice is to wait 2 hours after surgery to eat allowing any anesthesia still in your system to wear off. You should also have someone drive you home after any surgery.

Root Canal Therapy

The root canal system inside your tooth has been thoroughly cleaned, and the irritated tissue and bacteria that have caused you to need root canal treatment are gone. It is normal to feel some tenderness in the area over the next few days as your body undergoes the natural healing process. You should also take an antibiotic to treat any remaining infection.

 
Crowns and Bridges 
  After the final cementation of your restoration, it may take a few days to get used to the new crown or bridge. Sensitivity, especially to cold, is common for a time following treatment.

 

For the first few days avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. It is normal to have some discomfort in the gums around the tooth after the anesthesia wears off due to the procedure. If your bite feels unbalanced, please be sure to call our office for an appointment for a simple adjustment. 

White Fillings (Bonding)
   It is normal to experience some sensitivity to heat, cold and pressure after your appointment. It is not uncommon for the tooth to be sensitive for several weeks or months. You can also expect some soreness in your gums for several days.

 

  White fillings are set completely after they are placed, so as soon as the numbness from the anesthetic subsides, you can chew as you would normally. If your bite feels uneven, or if you have any questions or concerns about your new filling, be sure to give us a call.

Scaling and Root Planing 
 

  Scaling and root planing is a non- surgical treatment of periodontal disease. The purpose of the treatment is to remove bacterial plaque and tartar from around teeth and under the gum line. The goal is to produce clean, smooth teeth and roots, which will promote healing of the inflammation and infection of gum disease.

 

  After scaling and root planing, avoid eating anything on the area being treated for two hours or until the dental anesthetic has worn off completely. Avoid any hard “chippy” foods such as tortilla chips, potato chips, popcorn, or seeds for the next several days.

To help soothe the area, rinse your mouth 2-3 times a day with warm salt water rinses. Use one teaspoon of salt for every 3 ounces of water.

  Resume your home care regimen immediately, but be gentle with the area recently treated. Refrain from smoking for 24 to 48 hours after scaling and root planing. Tobacco will delay healing of the tissues.

Veneers 
  Sensitivity to hot and cold is to be expected following treatment. For the rst few days, try to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages. It is normal to have discomfort in the gums around the tooth after the numbness wears o . Rinse the area with warm salt water . 

  If your intermediate veneers come o between appointments, please call our surgery so that we can reapply them for you. Try and keep the dislodged portion safe and bring it with you.

 

  The shape of your final veneers will be similar to the intermediate veneers that were fitted. They will have been fitted with a very strong adhesive. Your teeth may feel slightly sensitive for the rst few days so avoid extremes of temperature during this time.

 

  It is very important to thoroughly clean the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gumline and to clean between the veneers with either oss or interdental brushes.

A consistent daily home care routine will increase the life of the veneers. 

 
  
Extractions 
  After the surgery, you will need to relax and rest. You need to be driven home by a friend or family member because of the anesthesia. Once home, some bleeding is to be expected along with swelling. You can prevent swelling by applying an ice bag over the affected area. Use 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for 24 hours to help prevent excessive swelling and discomfort.

 

After 24 hours it should not be necessary to continue with cold applications. You may expect swelling for 10 days to two weeks.

  You will be limited to soft foods for a few days after your surgery. Here are some options for food: 

• 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.