Comprehensive Dental Home Care Instructions

We are here to support you before, during, and after treatment.

Composite Fillings (White Fillings)

Your anesthesia will wear off within 1 to 3 hours. It’s important not to chew on the numb side to prevent accidental injury to your tongue, cheek, or lip.

Sensitivity: You may experience sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure. This is completely normal and may last a few days to a few weeks. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, contact our office.
Pain Management: If prescribed ibuprofen (Motrin), it is to reduce inflammation, not pain. Follow the dosage instructions provided. If ibuprofen isn’t an option, let us know immediately.
Bite Issues: If your bite feels uneven after the anesthesia wears off, call us. An unbalanced bite can cause discomfort and requires adjustment.

Tooth Extractions

Proper aftercare is essential for healing and comfort following a tooth extraction.

Blood Clot Formation: Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes post-procedure. If bleeding persists, replace the gauze and apply pressure for another 30 minutes.
Avoid: Smoking, using straws, vigorous rinsing, or cleaning near the extraction site for the first 24 hours.
Diet: Stick to soft foods and avoid hot, spicy, or alcoholic beverages for the first 24 hours.
Pain and Swelling: Use ice packs to reduce swelling, which typically decreases after 48 hours. Rinse gently with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 1 cup warm water) starting the day after the extraction.

If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or swelling beyond three days, call our office immediately.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment protects your tooth from further damage but requires proper care during the healing process.

Temporary Fillings or Crowns: Avoid sticky or hard foods to prevent damage to the temporary crown or filling.
Sensitivity and Pain: Mild discomfort is normal. Rinse with warm salt water three times daily to reduce swelling and pain.
Medications: Take antibiotics and pain relievers as prescribed. Complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms subside.
Final Crown Placement: Protect the treated tooth by scheduling a follow-up appointment to place a permanent crown.

Periodontal Treatment (Scaling and Root Planing)

Scaling and root planing improve gum health and prevent further periodontal issues.

Post-Treatment Sensitivity: It’s normal for teeth to feel more sensitive to hot, cold, or sweets. Use sensitivity toothpaste and fluoride rinses as recommended.
Home Care: Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and use prescribed mouth rinses like PerioMed. Avoid flossing areas treated with localized antibiotics (e.g., Arestin) for at least 10 days.
Follow-Up Visits: Complete all scheduled treatments to ensure proper healing.

Crowns

Crown placement involves a temporary and a permanent restoration.

Temporary Crowns: Avoid sticky or hard foods that might dislodge the temporary crown. If it comes off, secure it with over-the-counter dental cement and contact us.
Permanent Crowns: Some sensitivity is normal during the adjustment period. Ensure proper oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily, paying attention to the gum line.

Bridges

Bridges restore missing teeth and require careful care during the process.

Temporary Bridges: Avoid sticky and hard foods. If the bridge becomes loose, call us immediately.
After Placement: Soreness and sensitivity to hot and cold are normal. Rinse with warm salt water to reduce discomfort and maintain regular oral hygiene.

Dental Implants

Dental implants require specific aftercare to ensure healing and long-term success.

First Day: Avoid spitting, smoking, and using straws to protect the blood clot.
Bleeding: Minor bleeding is normal. If needed, use a moistened tea bag to stop bleeding after gauze has been used.
Swelling: Apply ice packs for the first 24 to 48 hours. After three days, switch to moist heat to reduce swelling.
Diet: Eat soft foods and stay hydrated. Avoid chewing directly on the surgical site.
Oral Hygiene: Begin gentle brushing around the surgical site the day after surgery. Avoid alcohol-based rinses for the first few days.

General Guidelines

Contact us immediately if you experience severe pain, prolonged swelling, or unusual symptoms.
Follow all prescribed instructions for medications and follow-up appointments.
Maintain excellent oral hygiene to support healing and long-term dental health.

Why Choose Oxford Dental

At Oxford Dental, we’re committed to your comfort and care every step of the way. If you have questions or concerns, our team is here to help.