Aftercare Instructions

Healing goes smoother when you know what to expect. Whether you just had a tooth removed, got fitted for new dentures, or started clear aligners, a few simple habits at home can keep you comfortable and protect your smile. Follow the aftercare instructions below, and reach out to our team if you have any questions.

Tooth Extractions

Keep gentle pressure on the gauze pad for the first hour to help a clot form over the socket. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or drinking through a straw for a full day, since suction can pull the clot loose and slow healing. Eat soft foods like yogurt or scrambled eggs for a few days. Starting the day after your extraction, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals. Be sure to rest as much as you can.

Scaling & Root Planing

After scaling and root planing, your gums may feel tender or a little swollen for a day or two. Rinse with warm salt water to soothe the area and keep it clean. Stick to soft, cool foods until the tenderness fades. Brush gently along the gumline, and hold off on flossing near the treated spots if it hurts. Keep up with your cleanings on your dentist's recommended schedule, since staying consistent helps keep gum disease from returning.

Dental Implants

Bite down on gauze for the first hour, if needed, to control any bleeding around your new implant. Use an ice pack on your cheek for short periods to ease swelling. Stick to soft foods and lukewarm drinks for the first few days, and skip anything crunchy or chewy. Keep the area clean with gentle rinsing, but don't brush directly on the implant site until your gums begin to heal.

Temporary Crowns

Your temporary crown protects the tooth underneath while your final restoration is made, so treat it with care. Chew on the other side of your mouth and skip sticky or hard foods that could pull the temporary loose. Floss carefully by sliding the floss out sideways instead of pulling up, since pulling up can dislodge the crown. Call our office right away if it feels loose or falls off.

Dentures

New dentures can feel snug or cause some soreness while your mouth adjusts. Take them out at night to give your gums a rest. Clean them daily with a denture brush and soak them in water or a denture solution when they're not in your mouth. Start with soft foods and add firmer textures slowly as your mouth adapts to the new fit.

Night Guards

Rinse your night guard with cool water each morning and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid very hot water, since it can warp the shape and change how it fits. Store your night guard in its case when you're not wearing it to keep it away from pets and heat. If it feels tight or loose after a few weeks, let our office know so it can be adjusted.

Clear Aligners

Wear your aligners for 20-22 hours each day, removing them only to eat, drink fluids other than water, and brush. Rinse them each time you take them out, and brush them gently before putting them back in. Clean your teeth after meals before reinserting the aligners to avoid trapping food against your gums. Store extra sets of aligners in their case so you don't lose track of them. Follow your treatment plan when switching to new aligners. If you lose an aligner, call us ASAP for guidance.