Post-Operative Instructions
The tooth filling process requires your dentist to administer a local anesthetic so they can remove diseased parts of the tooth. This process stimulates the nerves. Unfortunately, after the numbing agents wear off, you may feel sensitivity. You may feel pain opening your mouth or when consuming cold/hot foods. Nerve pain that produces sensitivity to pressure and temperature is normal after a filling for the first 2-4 weeks following treatment. If your tooth pain persists you may need to see an endodontist (root canal specialist) to ensure no decay is present in the nerve. With each filling procedure there is a possibility that the tooth may need a root canal in the future.
To promote longevity for your restorations and prevent future tooth decay and gum disease, please practice good home care. As with natural teeth, avoid chewing excessively hard foods on restored teeth because the filling or tooth could fracture. Anything that could break a tooth can break a filling. Remember to schedule routine dental exams, as early detection can prevent more major and costly procedures (e.g. crown or implant.
What to Expect: Filling
What to Expect: Extraction
Following extraction of a tooth, leave the gauze in for thirty (30) minutes following surgery. We recommend biting on a moistened black tea bag to help aid in the healing process. The tannic acid contained in black tea accelerates blood clotting and healing at the extraction site. If bleeding persists, please contact our office or call 911 for emergency assistance.
In some cases, small sharp bone fragments may work up through the gums during healing. These are not roots. If annoying, please return to the office for removal or you may simply just discard them as they work their way out.
Do not use mouthwash until fully healed.
Do not drink or eat hot foods today, as you may dissolve the healing clot. Avoid hard or spicy foods for a few days to avoid irritation. You may eat cool and soft foods today.
Do not smoke. If you are a habitual smoker and cannot resist urges, please avoid the side of the extraction. Smoking will increase your risk of a dry socket.
You may use a ice pack to reduce swelling.
In that case that you experience discomfort, take OTC Tylenol or Motrin. If pain is severe, please contact us for a prescription strength medication.
What to Expect: Deep Cleaning
Periodontal scaling and root planing removes the hardened bacterial deposits from the teeth and below the gum line. The purpose is to reduce inflammation and infection, thus allowing the re-attachment of the gums to the root surface.
This procedure is completed one side or quadrant at a time under local anesthesia. To avoid injury to your mouth, do not resume eating until the anesthesia has worn off. This may take 1-2 hours depending on your body’s metabolism.
Patients that have certain medical conditions, such as hypertension may experience heavier bleeding and longer healing process. To promote blood clotting, you may bite on a moist black tea bag. The tannic acid in the black tea helps to constrict blood vessels and clot the blood.
Following, treatment you may be prescribed Peridex mouthwash. We recommend using the rinse as directed for only 1 week as it can stain the teeth with prolonged use. You may alternate with a warm salt water rinse.
In that case that you do experience discomfort, take OTC Tylenol or Motrin. If symptoms become severe, please contact 911.
In order to achieve and maintain better periodontal health, you have been scheduled for a 3 month periodontal recall.