Post Operative Care

Post-Operative Instructions Periodontal Scaling and Root Planing

Diet:

Avoid hard, crunchy, and sticky foods for the first few days. 

Focus on soft foods and liquids to avoid irritating the gum tissue.  Chew on your other side. 

Wait until your numbness wears off before eating or drinking anything. Avoid really hot or cold foods for the first few days. 

Oral Hygiene:

Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. For first few days use powered toothbrush on lower setting. 

Resume flossing but gently! Use Waterpik on low for first few days. 

Rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day to soothe and promote healing. 

Use Sensodyne toothpaste. 

Pain Management:

Over-the-counter pain relievers: Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed to relieve any tenderness or discomfort. 

Other Considerations:

Some bleeding or gum irritation is normal. 

Any questions or concerns please call our office at (856) 956-3625. 

Post-Operative Instructions Following Extractions

  • For an hour after surgery, you should place pressure on the gauze pad covering the extraction site. If bleeding continues, apply new gauze and pressure for additional 45 minutes.
  • After surgery, place a cold compress on your face near the extraction site for 20 minutes. Remove for 10 minutes. Repeat.
  • Do not eat or drink hot foods and beverages after surgery.
  • Do not rinse your mouth.
  • Do not use a straw.
  • Do not spit
  • Do not drink carbonated beverages.
  • Do not brush your teeth on the day of surgery. Then resume normal home care, gently brushing and flossing.
  • Some bruising, swelling and pain are normal- particularly if you have had wisdom tooth extraction. Take your prescribed medication and use a cold compress on your face.
  • Plan to eat soft foods, such as pudding, jello, yogurt, ice cream, mashed potatoes and scrambled eggs for 2-3 days.
  • Do not bite your lips, cheeks or scrape your gums. Children should be watched carefully to make sure they don’t do this. It will damage soft tissue and result in pain.

If you have any questions or concerns, PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL US AT (856) 956-3625 

Immediate Aftercare (First 24-48 Hours) Implant placement

Control Bleeding:

Bite down gently but firmly on the provided gauze over the surgical area to help stop bleeding. 

Manage Swelling:

Apply an ice pack or a plastic bag filled with ice to the outside of your cheek for 15-minute intervals to reduce swelling. 

Rest:

Place your head in an elevated position for the first 8-12 hours, or use pillows to keep your head raised. Limit physical activity. 

Diet:

Consume soft, cold foods and beverages like soup, yogurt, or smoothies. Do not use straws, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot. 

Avoid Hot Items:

Do not drink hot liquids or eat hot foods, as this can irritate the surgical site. 

Oral Hygiene and Rinsing

Do not rinse your mouth vigorously: for the first 24 hours. 

Start gentle salt water rinses: 24 hours after surgery. Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and rinse gently 2-3 times a day. 

Avoid brushing the surgical site: directly for a few days. 

Continue to practice excellent oral hygiene: once the initial healing period has passed, but use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle around the implant. 

Medication and Lifestyle

Take Prescribed Medications: Take any pain medication or antibiotics as directed by your dentist. 

Avoid Smoking: Do not smoke for at least the first 24-48 hours. 

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid carbonated and sugary beverages. 

When to Contact Your Dentist 

If you have excessive or continued bleeding.

If you experience unusual or severe pain or discomfort.

If you have signs of infection, such as increased swelling, redness, or fever.