Post-Surgical Care

Dietary Recommendations

After your dental procedure, it’s crucial to follow dietary guidelines to avoid irritating the treatment area and promote healing.

• Soft Diet: For the first 48 hours, we recommend sticking to soft foods. This includes items like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies.
• Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods: Stay away from foods that are difficult to chew or that may get stuck in your teeth, such as raw vegetables, nuts, seeds, popcorn, and hard candy.
• Avoid Sugary and Starchy Snacks: These foods can expose your teeth and gums to harmful bacteria, leading to potential decay. If you do indulge, be sure to brush and floss immediately after.
• Chew on the Opposite Side: To protect the surgical area, avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed.
• Sensitivity: It’s normal to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, pressure, or swelling after your dental procedure. This typically subsides within 24 to 48 hours, but if it persists or worsens, contact us for further guidance.

Pain Relief and Comfort

Managing pain effectively is key to a comfortable recovery process.

• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: For most patients, mild discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Take the medication as directed, ideally before the pain becomes intense.
• Prescription Pain Medication: If you feel that the pain is more severe or persistent, don’t hesitate to contact our office. We may recommend a stronger pain reliever or provide additional instructions.
• Avoid Straws, Spitting, and Smoking: Using straws, vigorous swishing of liquids, or smoking can create pressure or disrupt the healing process. These activities should be avoided for at least a few days after the procedure.
• Pain Medication Timing: Pain medications are most effective when taken on a scheduled basis before the pain becomes unbearable. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage.

Proper Care for Healing

To ensure proper healing and avoid complications, taking extra care with your oral hygiene is essential.

• Use a Soft-Bristle Toothbrush: When brushing your teeth, choose a soft-bristle toothbrush. This is gentler on your gums and teeth, helping to avoid irritation in the treatment area.
• Choose the Right Toothpaste: Depending on your oral health, you may need a specific type of toothpaste. We can recommend the best option for you during your follow-up visits.
• Gentle Flossing: Once you’re cleared to floss, do so gently to avoid irritating the healing area. Be careful not to disrupt any stitches or cause discomfort.
• Saltwater Rinse: Rinsing with warm salt water (1/2 tsp of salt in 8 oz of warm water) can help soothe tender gums and promote healing. This should be done 2-3 times a day, especially after eating, to remove food particles and bacteria.
• Gum Tenderness: It’s common for the gums around the treated tooth to be tender. Gentle care during brushing and flossing will help reduce discomfort and speed up the healing process.

When to Call Us

If you experience any of the following, contact our office as soon as possible:

• Severe or persistent pain that cannot be controlled with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Prolonged swelling or bleeding beyond the first 48 hours.
• Any unusual signs of infection, such as fever or increased redness around the surgical site.
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing.

Remember, following these post-surgical care instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery and successful outcome. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to Whittier Premier Dental. We’re here to support you every step of the way.