After Cosmetic Reconstruction

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Adjusting to your new bite may take some time. When your bite changes or the position of your teeth is altered, it can take several days for your brain to recognize the new alignment as normal. If you continue to notice uneven spots or discomfort with your bite, please call us to schedule an adjustment.

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Some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is normal. Your teeth need time to heal after tooth structure is reshaped. Your gums may also be tender for a few days. To ease any discomfort, rinse with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times daily. Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen every 3–4 hours can also help manage any soreness.

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You may notice slight changes in your speech initially, but this will quickly return to normal. Increased salivation is also common and should subside within about a week.

Daily brushing and flossing are critical for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental work. Removing plaque every day and attending regular cleanings are key to preserving your new smile.

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Avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage your dental work, such as ice, hard candies, or pencils. Also minimize foods and habits that cause staining, like smoking, coffee, tea, red wine, and berries.

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If you participate in sports, let us know — we can create a custom mouthguard. If you grind your teeth at night, be sure to wear your prescribed night guard. Getting used to your new smile is a process, but we’re here to help every step of the way. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

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After Crown and Bridge Appointments

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Crowns and bridges typically require two to three visits to complete. During your first appointment, your teeth are prepared, and molds are taken. Temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect your teeth while your custom restoration is being created. Since anesthesia is used, your tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth may feel numb — please avoid eating or drinking hot beverages until the numbness fully wears off.

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If a temporary crown comes loose, call us and bring it with you to your appointment. Temporaries are important for maintaining the position of your teeth and ensuring the final restoration fits correctly.

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To help your temporary stay in place, avoid sticky or hard foods, and chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible. Brush normally, but when flossing, slide the floss out sideways rather than pulling up to avoid dislodging the temporary.

It’s normal to experience some sensitivity to temperature or pressure after each appointment. This should fade a few weeks after the final restoration is placed. Mild pain relievers can also help manage any discomfort as directed.

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If your bite feels uneven or if you have persistent discomfort, please call our office.

 

After Tooth Extraction

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Following a tooth extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to begin the healing process. Bite gently on a gauze pad for 30–45 minutes after your appointment. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite firmly for another 30 minutes, repeating as needed.

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Once the clot forms, avoid disturbing it — do not rinse forcefully, use straws, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush near the extraction site for 72 hours. These activities can dislodge the clot and delay healing. Also, limit vigorous physical activity for the first 24 hours.

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Some swelling and discomfort are normal after extraction. Apply an ice pack to the area to minimize swelling, and take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications as directed. Swelling usually subsides after 48 hours.

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If antibiotics were prescribed, be sure to complete the full course, even if symptoms improve. Drink plenty of fluids and stick to soft, nutritious foods on the day of your extraction. Resume normal brushing and flossing after 24 hours to promote healing and keep your mouth clean.

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You should start feeling better after a few days. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, prolonged swelling, or a reaction to medication, contact us immediately.

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After Composite Fillings (White Fillings)

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If you received anesthetic, you may experience numbness in your lips or tongue for several hours. Avoid chewing or consuming hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off to prevent accidental injury.

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It’s normal to experience mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure after a filling. Injection sites may also be tender. Over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen, Tylenol, or aspirin (one tablet every 3–4 hours) can help ease any discomfort.

You may chew on your composite fillings as soon as the anesthesia wears off, as they are fully hardened when you leave the office.

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If sensitivity persists beyond a few days, increases over time, or if your bite feels uneven, please call our office for an evaluation.