
Post-Op Instructions
Following any dental procedure, it’s essential to take care of your mouth to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Below are general recovery tips for specific treatments. Your care team will also provide personalized instructions before you leave our office.
Tip: Always wait at least 2 hours after your procedure before eating. This gives the anesthesia time to wear off and helps prevent accidental injury to your lips, cheeks, or tongue.

Root Canal Therapy
Mild soreness is normal for a few days. Here's how to manage your recovery:
- Avoid chewing on the treated side until your permanent restoration is placed.
- Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed.
- Call us if you experience increasing pain, a reaction to medication, or if your temporary filling comes out.
Crowns & Bridges
If you’ve received a temporary crown or bridge:
- Brush gently and floss carefully (pull the floss out, not up).
- Avoid sticky or chewy foods.
- Sensitivity is normal; rinse with warm salt water and take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
After your permanent crown or bridge is placed:
- It may feel a little “off” at first—this usually resolves within a week.
- Let us know if your bite feels uneven.
- Brush and floss regularly, just like your natural teeth.
White Fillings (Bonding)
Sensitivity to hot or cold may last a few days:
- Avoid extreme temperatures in food or drink.
- Resume your usual brushing and flossing routine.
- Contact us if discomfort persists.
Scaling & Root Planning
Slight gum soreness or bleeding is normal:
- Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 8 oz water) 2–3 times a day.
- Brush and floss gently starting the same day.
- Use a cold compress and over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods for 2–3 days.

Veneers
If you have a temporary veneer:
- Be extra gentle when brushing or flossing.
- Avoid pulling floss upward—slide it out instead.
- Skip sticky or chewy foods.
Once your permanent veneer is placed:
- Expect some sensitivity and mild discomfort for a few days.
- Rinse with warm salt water and use Advil or Tylenol as needed.
- Let us know if your bite feels unusual or uneven.
- Pay extra attention to the gum line when brushing and flossing.


Extractions
Recovery tips after a tooth removal:
- Plan to rest—arrange for someone to drive you home.
- Keep your head elevated to reduce bleeding.
- Change gauze as needed. If bleeding continues beyond 24 hours, call us.
- Use ice packs and take prescribed pain meds as directed.
- Avoid straws, smoking, or vigorous rinsing—they can delay healing.
Stick to soft foods for a few days, such as:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Ice cream
- Gelatin or pudding
- Broths or thin soups
If pain, swelling, or bleeding worsens—or if the site doesn’t seem to be healing—please reach out to our office right away.
Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Call our friendly team at (513) 734-2100 with any questions before your visit. We’re happy to walk you through anything you need.

