Post-Op Instructions

After having a tooth extracted, we advise taking it easy for the next couple of days and limiting any strenuous activity. Following extraction, we will give you a gauze pad to place on the affected area, where you should bite only hard enough to stem the bleeding.

Occasionally change the gauze to keep it fresh and reduce any mess. Apply ice in intervals of a few minutes each to reduce swelling. Also, remember to do the following:

• Take any prescribed or recommended pain medication
• Eat soft foods for 2-4 days after the procedure
• Brush your teeth, but not directly on the site of extraction
• Do not use straws or smoke during recovery

When your dentist first places your braces and assembles the wires and bands, you may feel pain or discomfort during the adjustment period. You can and should brush your teeth regularly, and in all sections of your mouth, teeth, and gums.

Try to avoid hard or chewy foods, candies, and carbonated drinks. Make sure you don’t miss any of your scheduled appointments for adjustment to your braces, as this could extend your treatment.

Invisalign braces are removable and therefore easy to clean with toothpaste but do keep them on at night to maximize your treatment. Remove your aligners before brushing or flossing your teeth. Also remove them before eating or drinking anything other than water, especially before drinking hot beverages (such as coffee or tea).

Following a root canal treatment, you may still feel numb from the anesthesia. Avoid eating or drinking anything hot or putting pressure on the tooth. Know that you may need an additional appointment for a filling or crown restoration.

As with dental extractions, you should take any prescribed or recommended pain medication after treatment if you are feeling pain or discomfort.

After an in-office tooth whitening, you may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. If this lasts longer than a few days, be sure to let us know.

Avoid smoking, as well as foods and drink that will easily stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red sauces, red meats, wine, and berries. It takes about 12 to 24 hours for your protective layer of enamel to be fully restored, which is why your teeth will be sensitive during this time.