Post-Op Instructions

After oral surgery, it is very important to take care of your mouth and follow instructions from Dr. Panchumarti to ensure healing and avoid complications. These instructions are general guidelines; after your surgery the doctor or dental assistant will give you personalized instructions for your recovery. Do not eat for at least two hours after surgery, or as long as you still feel mostly numb. Trying to eat before the anesthesia wears off could result in soft tissue damage because you can chew on your cheek or other tissues without feeling it.

Root Canal Therapy

After a root canal procedure you will probably experience a few days of soreness. Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed, so you do not irritate the area, and to ensure that the temporary restorative material sets properly. You will need to take a course of antibiotics to treat any remaining infection in your tooth. If you notice increasing pain or tenderness, a reaction to your medication, or the loss of the temporary restoration (filling) call your dentist immediately.

Restorations: Crowns, Bridges, and Veneers

Before you receive your permanent tooth restoration, you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. Brush the area gently and do not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. Avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.

After the placement of any crown, bridge, or veneer, you may have some sensitivity and irritation. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take over-the-counter Advil or Tylenol to reduce pain.

When your permanent restoration is placed, it may feel a little awkward for a few days. In less than a week, your mouth should adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel natural. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, let your dentist know. Care for your restoration just as you care for your own teeth, with regular brushing and flossing. When brushing and flossing, pay close attention to the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gum line.

Bonding and Fillings

After the anesthesia wears off, your teeth will likely be sensitive. Avoid very hot or very cold food and drinks for the next few days. After that initial period, your treated teeth will feel as good as new. Continue your normal hygiene plan to ensure that your fillings last for a long time.

Scaling and Root Planing

your gums will probably be slightly sore and irritated for a few days after this procedure. You should rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1 tsp salt/8 oz water) two to three times a day. This will cleanse the area and promote healing. Brushing and flossing should be continued right after the procedure, but you should brush gently with a soft toothbrush to avoid further irritating the area. If you experience swelling or stiffness in the area, place a cold compress on the site and take some pain-relieving medicine. Avoid hard or chewy foods for two to three days after the surgery to ensure the area heals correctly. If you continue to experience pain or swelling after a few days, contact your dentist.

Extractions

After your surgery, you will need to be driven home by a friend or family member because of the anesthesia. You can expect the extraction site to bleed for a little after the surgery. Gauze will be applied at the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it when it becomes soaked. If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call Dr. Panchumarti. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying down. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication, so if you experience soreness, take as directed. You can also use an ice pack for pain. Your dentist might also provide a cleaning solution to clean the extraction site.

You will be limited to soft foods that you can eat without chewing for a few days after your surgery. Recommended foods include thin soups, mashed potatoes, yogurt, gelatin, and ice cream.

When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can loosen your sutures and slow the clotting process. The same goes for smoking. If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, or irritation, or don't feel that the extraction site is healing properly, call our office for a follow-up.