Post-Operative Instructions for Common Procedures

Root Canal Treatment

• Pain Management: Mild discomfort is common after a root canal, and over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help. If prescribed, take any antibiotics as directed.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to soft foods for the first few days to avoid putting pressure on the treated tooth.
• Temporary Filling Care: If a temporary filling was placed, avoid chewing directly on that tooth until your permanent restoration is placed.

Crowns

• Sensitivity: Your tooth may be sensitive to temperature or pressure for a few days. This is normal and should resolve on its own.
• Avoid Sticky Foods: Until your permanent crown is placed, avoid chewing on sticky foods like gum, taffy, or caramel.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene, but be gentle around the crown area until your mouth fully heals.

Gum Disease Therapy (Scaling & Root Planing)

• Bleeding and Swelling: It is normal to experience slight bleeding or swelling after gum therapy. If bleeding continues or becomes heavy, please contact our office.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any discomfort. Follow all home-care instructions provided.
• Gentle Brushing: Use a soft toothbrush and gentle brushing technique to avoid further irritation of the gums.

Fillings

• Sensitivity: Your tooth may be sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure for a few days. This is usually temporary.
• Avoid Chewing on Treated Area: If a local anesthetic is used, wait until the numbness wears off before eating to avoid accidental biting or irritation.
• Oral Hygiene: Keep the area clean, but avoid brushing or flossing directly on the filling for the first 24 hours.

Cleanings & Exams

• Mild Sensitivity: After cleaning, you may experience some mild tooth sensitivity, which should subside after a few hours.
• Gum Tenderness: Your gums may feel a little tender, especially if you have not had a cleaning in a while. This is normal and should resolve within a day or two.

Tooth Removal

• Bleeding Control: Bite on gauze for 30-45 minutes after the procedure to control bleeding. If bleeding persists, place a new gauze and bite down for another 30 minutes.
• Avoid Sucking or Spitting: Do not suck on straws, spit forcefully, or rinse your mouth vigorously for 24 hours to prevent dislodging the clot and delaying healing.
• Pain Management: Take prescribed medications as directed for pain control.

Teeth Whitening

• Tooth Sensitivity: Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal following whitening. If discomfort occurs, it should resolve in a few hours.
• Avoid Staining Foods: For 24-48 hours after whitening, avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries.
• Maintain Results: To extend the results of your whitening treatment, maintain a good oral hygiene routine and consider periodic touch-up treatments.

Please review the specific post-operative care instructions related to your procedure. If you have any questions or experience any issues during your recovery, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way to ensure your comfort and dental health. Thank you for trusting Greater Dental Health to provide your care.