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Post Op Instructions

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Keeping You Safe After an Oral Surgery

After any oral surgery, there are a few things you should know in order to stay healthy and comfortable. Regardless of the procedure, there will be some discomfort that follows. From tooth extractions to dental cosmetic reconstruction, all dental operations come with some backlash afterwards. Therefore, our aim at Family Dental Associates is to give the people of Margate, Coconut Creek, and other surrounding communities the knowledge and tools needed to keep their mouths on the fast track to recovery. Continue reading below to find out which practices are recommended to perform after a dental operation.

After a Tooth Extraction

Tooth extractions are among the most common dental operations that take place. Following a tooth extraction, a blood clot usually forms in the extracted tooth’s socket to stop bleeding and to protect the exposed jawbone. If the clot becomes dislodged or does not form, the site is called a dry socket, which is usually painful. If you have a dry socket, please let us know so one of our dentists can alleviate your pain.

Our dentists usually will place a medicated dressing on the dry socket until the healing process begins. During this time, it is important not to suck on straws, smoke, drink alcohol, or brush the teeth next to the socket for up to 72 hours afterward, as these actions will disturb the blood clot. Also, do not vigorously exercise for the next 24 hours after the extraction. We recommend applying an ice pack to reduce swelling and pain. You may also take ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin as directed on the bottle. After 24 hours, it is important to resume your normal brushing and flossing routine. And as with any procedure, if your pain or sensitivity persists, or if you have any questions, please reach out to the office for any other dentistry needs.

To stop normal bleeding after an extraction, place a piece of gauze over the socket and apply firm biting pressure for 45 minutes to an hour. Applying pressure for this extended period of time should stop the bleeding. If not, call our office immediately.

After Cosmetic Reconstruction

Cosmetic reconstruction is a far more intensive surgery, and so is the recovery process. The actual mouth restorations are ideal for enhancing the appearance of the smile by correcting imperfections in bite position. After the procedure, it will take several days for you to adjust to the feel of your new bite and the new positions and shapes of your teeth.

Your teeth will usually have heat, cold, and pressure sensitivity for a while, and your gums will most likely be sore as well. To alleviate the pain and reduce swelling, we recommend rinsing your mouth with warm salt water (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of water) at least three times a day. You may also take ibuprofen, acetaminophen or aspirin as directed on the bottle.

For the first few days, your speech will likely be affected and you will need time to adjust to your new bite, shape, and position of your teeth. In about a week, you will be speaking normally again.

To maintain your new smile, brushing and flossing your teeth is a must. Be sure to schedule regular dental cleaning appointments to preserve your new teeth.

To guarantee your dental work’s longevity, please do not eat sticky or hard foods or candies that will damage your new teeth. In order to ensure the most natural-looking color of your teeth, you should avoid smoking and minimize drinking coffee, red wine and tea as these will all stain your teeth. By following these simple tips, you should be back to normal in almost no time at all.

Schedule Your Operation Today!

Dental surgeries can be a big deal. Not only can they be fairly intensive and stressful leading up to the operation, but following the procedure as well. With several tricks and tactics to keep your discomfort to a minimum, you can now leave any dental operation with the peace of mind that you will be able to recover swiftly and safely. If you have already talked with one of our dentists and are now ready to go through with your own dental operation, please contact us during our business hours and schedule an appointment. You no longer have to be afraid of the aftermath or dental operations, so call today!

Family Dental Associates and Orthodontics Logo

6130 W. Atlantic Blvd.Margate, FL 33063

Office Hours:

Mon - Thu: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.