Post-Op Instructions

• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your arms.
• Do not eat any food for at least 8 hours before your procedure.
• For children, parents or guardians must monitor them to ensure no food or drink is consumed prior to their appointment.
• Clear liquids—such as water, clear fruit juice (without pulp), carbonated drinks, plain tea, or black coffee—are permitted up to 4 hours before your visit.
• If you take daily medications for conditions like high blood pressure, thyroid issues, or asthma, please take them with a small sip of water about an hour prior to your procedure.
• If this is your first time visiting us, please plan to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled time.
• An adult must accompany you and stay in the office during your procedure and recovery. Patients under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian present. (Please note: You may not go home alone or take a taxi afterward.)
• To help streamline your discharge process, we recommend completing any payments before your procedure.
• If you were prescribed antibiotics at your consultation, be sure to take them with a small sip of water an hour before your appointment.
• Remove all nail polish and lipstick prior to arriving.
• Contact our office if you are experiencing a cold, fever, sore throat, cough, or any other symptoms of illness ahead of your scheduled visit.
  

Feel confident knowing you'll receive skilled, compassionate care during your time with us!

Recovery after oral surgery is a personal journey, and your experience may differ from others. While you may not have all the symptoms listed, these precautions, combined with common sense, will guide you through the healing process. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact our office.

General Recovery Tips

For the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure, take it easy. Stay at home, limit how much you speak, and avoid any strenuous activity. Full bed rest isn't necessary, but giving your body time to recover is crucial. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact our office.

Day of Surgery

First Hour:

• Bite down gently but firmly on the gauze pads placed on your surgical sites to help control bleeding.

• You can take out the gauze once you're home. If it's heavily soaked with blood, replace it with fresh gauze.

• Before you put in new gauze, have a soft, cold food like a milkshake, yogurt, or ice cream. Use a spoon, as you should not use a straw for at least 6 days.

• After you eat, take one dose of prescription-strength Motrin and one dose of Extra Strength Tylenol.

• Moisten 2 new gauze pads with a little water, roll them, and fold them. Place them over the surgical area and bite down for 20 minutes.

• Light red staining is normal; only change the gauze if it becomes saturated. Mild bleeding or oozing through the evening is to be expected.

First 24 Hours:

• Do not touch or disturb the surgical areas.

• Do not rinse, spit, brush your teeth at night, eat hot foods, or use a straw.

• Do not smoke, as it can seriously disrupt healing and lead to a dry socket.

• Apply an ice pack to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals (20 minutes on, 5 minutes off) until bedtime to manage swelling.

Swelling, Pain, & Bleeding

Swelling: Swelling is a normal part of the healing process and may be significant.

• For the first 24 hours, use an ice pack on your face in 20-minute intervals.

• After the first day, switch to warm compresses to help reduce any remaining swelling. Swelling typically peaks within the first 40 hours before gradually going down.

Bleeding: Bleeding should be light. If it becomes heavy, your gauze may not be positioned correctly over the surgical site.

• Reposition the gauze or try using a damp tea bag (steeped in hot water, squeezed dry, and wrapped in gauze) on the area for 30 minutes.

• If bleeding persists, call our office. Avoid strenuous physical activity for at least five days, as it can cause bleeding to start again.

Pain: Some discomfort is expected.

• Take your first dose of pain medication before the numbness from the anesthesia wears off for the best results.

• Continue to alternate Motrin and Tylenol every four hours for the first two days while you're awake. If the pain is more intense, take the stronger medication we prescribed.

• Rest as much as possible to avoid increasing nausea and bleeding. If you feel like your medication is ineffective or you're taking it more frequently than you should, please contact us.

Nausea: Feeling nauseated is common due to anesthesia or medication.

• To minimize this, eat a small amount of soft food before each dose of pain medication.

• Sip on clear liquids or a classic cola to help settle your stomach. If nausea continues, let us know.

Diet & Hygiene

What to Eat:

• First 24 Hours: Stick to cold, liquid, or pureed foods. Do not have hot foods or use a straw.

• Second Day Onward: You can start introducing warm, soft foods and continue this diet for the next 3 weeks.

• Avoid: Crunchy or hard foods like popcorn, nuts, and seeds for three weeks, as they can get stuck in the healing sites.

Oral Hygiene:

• Brushing: Resume gentle brushing 24 hours after surgery. Brush as much as you comfortably can, but avoid brushing directly over the surgical site if it's too sore.

• Rinsing: Start rinsing your mouth after the first day. Use a warm salt water rinse (1/4 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water). Swish gently, using the entire glass over a 5-minute period. Rinse after meals and as needed to stay clean.

Healing & What to Expect

• Bruising may appear a few days after surgery and is a normal part of the healing process.

• The first two days are typically the most uncomfortable, with swelling being common. By day three, you should start to feel better and be able to eat a wider variety of soft foods. You should see a steady improvement with each passing day.

Still Have Questions?

We're here to support you throughout your recovery. If you have any concerns, please call our office. For the quickest response, reach out during business hours, though a doctor is available after hours for urgent issues.

Healing after implant placement should be smooth if you follow a few simple guidelines. Taking proper care at home and staying in touch with your surgical team are key to a successful recovery.

General Recovery Tips

Plan to rest at home for the first 24-48 hours. Limit activity and speaking to allow your body to recover. You don't need to stay in bed, but taking it easy is crucial. While most patients only have mild side effects, we recommend you follow these instructions closely. If you're unsure about anything, please contact our office.

Day of Surgery

First Hour:

• Gently but firmly bite down on the gauze pads placed at the surgical site to control bleeding.

• You can remove the gauze once you're home. If it's soaked with blood, replace it with new, slightly dampened gauze.

• Before you put in new gauze, have a cold, soft food like a milkshake, yogurt, or ice cream (use a spoon only—no straws for at least 6 days).

• Then, take your pain relievers: one prescription-strength Motrin and one Extra Strength Tylenol.

• Roll two new pieces of dampened gauze from your kit and fold them to fit over the implant site. Bite down gently for 20 minutes.

• Redness on the gauze is normal. Only replace it if it becomes heavily soaked.

• Some mild bleeding or spotting is expected and may continue through the night.

First 24 Hours:

• Do not disturb the area—no brushing, rinsing, spitting, hot food, or straws.

• Absolutely do not smoke, as this can severely disrupt healing.

• To manage swelling, use an ice pack on your face in 20-minute intervals (20 minutes on, 5 minutes off) for the rest of the day.

Swelling, Pain, & Bleeding

Swelling: Swelling is common and can be noticeable.

• For the rest of the day, use an ice pack in 20-minute intervals.

• After the first day, switch to warm compresses to help with any remaining swelling. Swelling usually peaks by 40 hours after surgery and then slowly goes down.

Bleeding: Heavy bleeding is rare. If it happens, your gauze may not be placed correctly.

• Reposition the gauze to apply pressure directly over the implant area.

• If needed, use a damp tea bag wrapped in gauze for 30 minutes.

• If the bleeding doesn't stop, contact our office. Avoid exercise or heavy physical activity for 5 days to prevent bleeding from starting again.

Pain: Some discomfort is expected.

• Take your first dose of pain medication before the numbness from the anesthetic wears off for the best results.

• Alternate Motrin and Tylenol every four hours while awake for the first two days.

• If you need more pain relief, use the stronger prescription medication as directed.

• Rest and limit movement to reduce lightheadedness and nausea. If you're taking medication frequently with little relief, call our office.

Nausea: Feeling nauseated is common due to anesthesia or medication.

• Have a small amount of soft food before each pain pill to help.

• Stick to clear fluids, reduce unnecessary medication doses, and try a cola to settle your stomach. If nausea continues, contact us.

Diet & Hygiene

What to Eat:

• First 24 Hours: Only have cold liquids or pureed foods. Avoid hot meals and straws.

• Second Day Onward: Start eating warm, soft foods. Continue this soft diet for at least three weeks. If you have a temporary tooth over your implant, you should maintain a soft food diet for four months.

• Avoid nuts, seeds, popcorn, or other small, hard foods for 3 weeks, as they can get trapped near the implant and interfere with healing.

• Don't skip meals. Eating regularly helps you regain energy and recover more comfortably. Diabetic patients should follow their usual meal plan or a doctor's guidance. Always eat before taking medication to reduce the risk of nausea.

Oral Hygiene:

• Brushing: Resume gentle brushing 24 hours after surgery. Brush as much as you comfortably can, but avoid brushing directly over the implant site if it's too tender.

• Rinsing: After the first day, rinse gently with warm salt water (¼ teaspoon salt in 8 ounces of water). Swish slowly with the full glass over five minutes. Repeat after meals and as needed. If you were given a prescription rinse, begin using it on the third day.

Bruising:

• Some bruising is normal after implant placement and may appear a few days later. It's a common side effect of the procedure.

Dentures & Appliances

• If you wear a full or partial denture or a temporary tooth (flipper), you can usually wear it right after surgery unless we tell you otherwise.

• Keep your appliance in for the first 24 hours to help shape the gum tissue and minimize swelling.

• Starting the next day, remove it briefly for cleaning, but don't leave it out for long until 72 hours after surgery.

• If it causes discomfort or pressure, stop using it and call us to have it adjusted.

Have Questions?

If anything feels wrong or you're unsure about your healing, please call our office. For urgent needs, a doctor is available after hours, but calling during business hours ensures the quickest response.

Following these instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery after your sinus lift. Proper care and communication with our team will help you heal successfully.

General Recovery Tips

For the first 24 to 48 hours, plan to rest at home. Limit activity and speaking to allow your body to heal. Although you may not have every symptom listed, follow these instructions unless we tell you otherwise. If you're ever unsure, please call our office.

Day of Surgery

First Hour

• Keep steady, gentle pressure on the gauze placed at the surgical site.

• Once you're home, you can remove the gauze. If it's heavily stained with blood, replace it with new, slightly moistened gauze.

• Before placing fresh gauze, have a soft, cold food like yogurt, ice cream, or a milkshake, but do not use a straw for at least 6 days.

• As soon as you finish eating, take one prescription-strength Motrin and one Extra Strength Tylenol.

• Roll and fold two damp pieces of gauze and place them snugly over the implant site, then bite down for 20 minutes.

• Light bleeding or oozing is normal. Only replace the gauze if it becomes soaked.

First 24 Hours

• Do not disturb the surgical site.

• Avoid spitting, rinsing, brushing your teeth, eating hot food, or using a straw.

• Do not smoke, as it significantly interferes with healing.

Swelling, Pain, & Bleeding

Swelling: Swelling is expected and may be pronounced.

• For the rest of the day, apply a cold compress to the outside of your face in 20-minute intervals (20 minutes on, 5 minutes off).

• The next day, switch to warm, moist compresses to help reduce any remaining swelling.

• Swelling typically peaks around 40 hours after surgery and then slowly goes down.

Bleeding: Heavy bleeding is uncommon. If it occurs, your gauze may not be positioned correctly.

• Adjust the gauze so it applies pressure directly over the surgical area.

• If needed, use a tea bag (soaked in hot water, wrung out, and wrapped in gauze) for 30 minutes.

• If bleeding continues, contact our office to reach the on-call doctor.

• Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for five days, as this can cause bleeding to restart.

Pain Management: Some discomfort is to be expected.

• Take your pain medication before the numbness fully wears off for best results.

• Alternate Motrin and Tylenol every 4 hours while you're awake for the first 48 hours.

• If the pain isn't controlled with this, use the stronger medication as prescribed.

• Rest and limit movement—physical exertion can increase bleeding and nausea.

• If you find yourself needing frequent or high doses of pain medication, contact our office.

Nausea: It's common to feel nauseated after anesthesia or from certain medications.

• Eating a small portion of soft food before taking pain pills can help.

• Stick to clear liquids if nausea continues, and try sipping a classic Coca-Cola or another carbonated beverage to help settle your stomach.

Diet & Hygiene

What to Eat

• First 24 Hours: Stick to a cold, liquid-based diet. Do not have hot foods or use a straw.

• Day Two and Beyond: Begin soft, warm foods and continue this diet for at least three weeks.

• Recommended Foods: Milk, yogurt, smoothies (without straws), applesauce, pudding, Jell-O, ice cream, soft scrambled or boiled eggs, oatmeal, Cream of Wheat, mashed or baked potatoes, lukewarm soups, and soft-cooked fish.

• Avoid: Popcorn, nuts, seeds, and other foods that may get stuck near the surgical site for three weeks.

• Do not skip meals. Eating regularly helps with energy, discomfort, and healing. Diabetic patients should follow their regular diet or physician's guidance. Always eat before taking medication to help avoid nausea.

Oral Hygiene

• Brushing: You can resume gentle brushing 24 hours after surgery. Be careful around the surgical area. If it feels sore or swollen, brush gently within your comfort level.

• Rinsing: After the first day, rinse gently with warm salt water (¼ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water). Swish gently, using the full glass over 5 minutes. Rinse after every meal and as needed.

Healing Expectations

The first two days are typically the most uncomfortable and swollen. By day three, you should start to feel better and may be able to eat a wider variety of food. Healing should continue steadily from that point forward.

Special Instructions for Sinus Care

To ensure proper healing and avoid complications, follow these additional precautions:

• Take all medications exactly as prescribed.

• Use Afrin nasal spray (over-the-counter): two sprays in each nostril, morning and evening, for 3 days.

• Avoid forceful spitting for one week.

• Do not smoke for 10 days.

• Do not use a straw for one week.

• Do not blow your nose for at least two weeks, even if you feel pressure or drainage. Clean your nostrils gently with Q-tips.

• Use Ocean Nasal Spray (an over-the-counter saline spray) several times a day to keep your nasal passages moist.

• If you need to sneeze, keep your mouth open to minimize sinus pressure.

• Stick to a soft-food diet for several days and chew on the opposite side of your mouth.

• Avoid vigorous rinsing. Light salt water swishes are acceptable.

When to Call

Please call our office immediately if you have increased drainage, worsening pain, or any other unexpected changes. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing.

Thank you for trusting us with your root canal care. Please follow the guidelines below to support your healing and reduce the risk of complications. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to our office.

Immediate Care

• Avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after your procedure. The temporary filling needs this time to harden completely.

• Please do not touch the treated tooth with your tongue, as this could dislodge or weaken the temporary material.

Pain Relief & Medications

• If you received a prescription, please have it filled promptly and take the medication exactly as instructed.

• If no prescription was provided and you are not allergic, you may take:

  • Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin): 600 mg (3 tablets of 200 mg) every 6-8 hours as needed for pain or swelling.

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol): 1000 mg every 6-8 hours as needed.

• Always follow the dosage limits on the medication label. If you are still experiencing significant pain, please call our office.

Ice Pack Use

• To help manage swelling or soreness, apply an ice pack to the outside of your face near the treated area.

• Wrap the ice pack in a cloth—never place ice directly on the skin.

• Apply for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off, repeating for up to 6-8 hours after your appointment.

Chewing & Eating

• Once you resume eating, avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration is placed.

• The temporary material is delicate and can be damaged by hard or sticky foods like ice, nuts, pretzels, or hard candies.

• The area may remain sensitive for a few days due to inflammation or pressure on the surrounding tissue.

Final Restoration

• A crown or filling is needed to protect the tooth long-term.

• Please schedule an appointment with us within the next month. Delaying this final step increases the risk of the temporary filling fracturing or decay developing, which may require additional treatment.

Oral Hygiene

• Keep the area clean by gently brushing and flossing around the treated tooth.

• Regular oral hygiene is safe unless you have been given special instructions.

Temporary Filling Issues

• It is uncommon for a temporary filling to come out. If it does, contact us as soon as possible.

• If the office is closed, you can purchase temporary dental filling material at a pharmacy and follow the product instructions.

What to Expect

• Some mild to moderate discomfort is normal for 2-4 days after treatment. In some cases, the tooth or surrounding area may remain sore for a few weeks.

Flare-Ups

• While rare, flare-ups can happen in about 5% of cases.

• Symptoms may include:

  • Moderate to severe pain

  • Swelling

  • Throbbing

  • General discomfort

• If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact our office right away. You may need additional treatment or medication, such as antibiotics. We are available after hours for urgent needs.

If you have any questions about your recovery, medications, or next steps, don't hesitate to call. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Scaling and root planing removes plaque and tartar from below the gumline to help reduce infection, lessen inflammation, and improve gum health. Follow these guidelines for the best results:

• You might experience some temperature sensitivity for the first 24 hours.

• After your procedure, avoid eating, drinking, or chewing anything until the numbness from the anesthesia has completely worn off.

• Stay away from hot or spicy foods, vigorous exercise, smoking, and alcohol for at least 24-48 hours.

• It's normal to have some mild bleeding, but if it becomes excessive, please contact our office.

• Pain can be managed with ibuprofen or acetaminophen, following the directions on the label or your provider's instructions.

• A warm salt water rinse (1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water, used three times a day) can help soothe your gums.

• Brush and floss gently while you feel sore and resume your normal routine once you're comfortable.

• Please follow any other instructions you were given during your visit and take all prescribed medications as directed.

Contact us with any questions or concerns about your healing.

Immediate Care (First 24 hours):

• Do not disturb the surgical site. Avoid forceful rinsing, spitting, or using a straw.

• Minor bleeding is normal. To manage it, gently bite down on a gauze pad placed directly over the wound for about 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, please contact our office.

• Take all prescribed medications as directed, including any mouth rinses.

• Use ice packs for the first 48-72 hours to help minimize swelling. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes, then rest for the same amount of time.

After 24 Hours:

• Start warm salt water rinses (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) 4-5 times a day, especially after meals.

• Brush your teeth gently with a soft manual toothbrush, being careful around the surgical area.

• If swelling is still present, you can apply a warm pack to the area for comfort and to help reduce swelling and bruising. Use it in 15-minute intervals as needed.

Diet & Activities:

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids.

• Steer clear of spicy, crunchy, or sharp foods like chips, nuts, or tacos.

• Refrain from tobacco and alcohol for at least 24 hours. Do not mix alcohol with pain medications or antibiotics.

• Keep physical activity to a minimum immediately following your surgery.

Other Important Information:

• Sutures may have been placed; most are designed to dissolve on their own.

• Bruising and swelling are common and are a normal part of the healing process.

What to Do in an Emergency:

• During office hours, we will see you as soon as possible if you have an urgent concern.

• After hours, please call the office and follow the instructions to reach the on-call staff. Your call will be returned promptly.

• In the event of a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

To ensure proper healing, please follow these guidelines after your procedure:

Immediate Care (First 24 hours):

• Do not disturb the surgical site. Avoid forceful rinsing or spitting.

• Minor bleeding is normal for the first 24 hours. To manage it, gently bite down on a gauze pad placed directly over the wound for about 30 minutes. If bleeding continues, please contact our office.

• Take all medications, including any mouth rinses, as prescribed.

• Use ice packs for the first 48-72 hours to help minimize swelling. Apply ice for 15-20 minutes, then rest for the same amount of time.

After 24 Hours:

• You can resume your usual oral hygiene routine in all areas except the surgical site.

• At the treated areas, gently brush with a soft manual toothbrush. Do not floss in these areas for the first week.

• Do not use undiluted mouthwash, salt water, or peroxide rinses during the first week.

Diet and Activities:

• Drink plenty of fluids.

• Stay away from spicy, acidic, crunchy, or sharp foods like tacos, chips, and nuts.

• Avoid tobacco and alcohol. Do not combine alcohol with pain medications or antibiotics.

• Keep physical activity to a minimum, and avoid strenuous activity for 2-3 days.

In Case of Emergency:

• During office hours, we will give your situation immediate attention and see you as soon as possible.

• After hours, please call the office and follow the instructions provided. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.

• For a serious or life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Getting a crown or bridge can take one to three appointments. We'll discuss your specific treatment plan and the timeline with you before we begin.

After Your Visit:

• It's normal to have some tenderness or sensitivity around your gums and tooth for a day or two. If this feeling lasts longer, please contact our office.

• If you received anesthesia, be sure to avoid chewing or eating until the numbness has completely worn off.

If You Have a Temporary Restoration:

• Stick to softer foods and avoid anything especially hard, crunchy, or chewy.

• To clean around your temporary, brush and floss daily. When flossing, be gentle and carefully slide the floss out to avoid dislodging it.

• If your temporary becomes loose or breaks, call us right away.

Once Your Final Restoration Is Placed:

• For the first 24 hours, avoid chewing on hard, crunchy, or sticky foods to allow the cement to fully set.

• You may experience some mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods. This is normal and should go away within a few weeks. If it persists for more than six weeks, please let us know.

Ongoing Care:

• Maintain your new restoration by brushing after every meal and snack.

• Floss at least once a day before bed.

• Using a mouthwash can also help remove any food particles you might have missed.

If you have any pain or questions about your treatment, don't hesitate to call our office.

After your procedure, please follow these guidelines, especially if you or a child received anesthesia:

• Do not eat or chew until the numbness has completely worn off.

• If you're a parent or guardian, make sure your child does not eat or chew while numb.

• Remind children not to bite their lips or tongue, as this can cause serious injury.

• For the first 24 hours, avoid sticky, crunchy, or hard foods.

• Some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as soreness, is normal and should go away within a few days.

• If you experience pain or discomfort for more than a few days, please call our office.

It's common to have some discomfort for a few days after receiving your new dentures or partials. They will likely need several adjustments to feel comfortable.

Tips for Adjusting:

• Practice reading aloud for a little while each day to help get used to speaking with them.

• Remove your dentures at night and clean them. Store them in a clean container with denture cleaning solution.

• To give your mouth and gums a rest, take your dentures out for at least 6 hours every day.

• Brush the roof of your mouth, your tongue, and lightly brush your gums after removing your dentures.

• Brushing after every meal and snack is important for your remaining teeth and gums to prevent food particles from getting trapped, which can cause inflammation or sore spots. Rinsing with water or mouthwash can also help.

Ongoing Care:

• For partial dentures, brush your natural teeth and surrounding tissues after every meal and snack, and floss at least once a day.

• For full dentures, it's very important to brush them regularly.

• You should come into our office at least once a year so a doctor can check your dentures or partials for proper fit and function.

• Wearing ill-fitting dentures without professional care can lead to serious oral disease and bone loss.

Please call our office at the first sign of any persistent pain or discomfort.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your aligner treatment is a success.

Do:

• Insert your aligners correctly. Place the aligner over your front teeth first, then gently push it down over your molars with your fingers. When properly seated, there should be no gap between the aligner and your teeth. They will feel tight at the beginning of the two-week period but should fit well by the end.

• Wear your aligners consistently. Only take them out to brush, floss, or eat. It's also best to remove them when drinking hot beverages like coffee or tea.

• Remove aligners with care. Pull them off your back teeth on both sides simultaneously, then lift them off your front teeth.

• Store them safely. Always put your aligners in the provided case when you're not wearing them to avoid losing or damaging them.

• Clean your aligners with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

• Follow the schedule. Wear each set of aligners for two weeks, or as instructed by our office.

• Wear them in the right order. Each aligner is marked with a number and a "U" (upper) or "L" (lower).

• Bring all old aligners to your appointments.

Don't:

• Don't wrap your aligners in a napkin or tissue. They are often accidentally thrown away this way.

• Don't use your teeth to bite aligners into place. This can damage them.

• Don't leave them where pets can reach them. Pets are attracted to the smell of saliva and might chew on them.

• Don't use denture cleaner, alcohol, or bleach to clean your aligners.

• Don't use boiling or hot water on your aligners.

• Don't chew gum while wearing your aligners.

• Avoid smoking with your aligners in, as it can stain both them and your teeth.

Just in Case:

• If a bonding tab comes off your tooth, please call our office right away. We'll let you know if you need to come in before your next scheduled appointment.

• If you lose an aligner tray, wear the next one if you have it. If not, wear the previous one. This is crucial to keep your teeth from shifting. Call our office to let us know which tray was lost so we can determine if a replacement is needed. There may be a fee for replacement trays.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your teeth whitening treatment is successful and your results last.

For the First 48 Hours After Bleaching:

Your teeth are more vulnerable to staining for 48 hours after a whitening treatment. To keep your teeth from staining, it's best to avoid any food or drink that is dark in color. If something can stain your clothes, it can also stain your teeth. This includes:

• Berries

• Cola or other dark sodas

• Red wine

• Coffee and tea

• Tobacco

• Ketchup, soy sauce, or other dark sauces

Using Your Custom Trays:

• Follow the instructions from our office for how long to wear your trays.

• Place the bleaching gel in the center of each tooth position on the tray. The gel should rest against the front surface of your teeth when you put the tray in.

• After use, rinse your mouth and gently brush any remaining gel off your teeth with a soft toothbrush.

• Clean your trays after each use.

Please monitor your child closely for approximately 2 hours after their appointment, especially if they received anesthesia.

Following Anesthesia:

• While the numbness lasts, it's best to give your child a liquid or soft diet.

• Remind your child not to bite, pick at, scratch, or play with the numb areas of their mouth.

Care for Fillings or Pulp Treatments:

• It's normal for the tooth and gum tissue to be sensitive or uncomfortable after the procedure.

• If this occurs, you can give your child children's Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin as directed for their age and weight.

• If sensitivity or discomfort continues for more than 24 hours, please contact our office.

After an Extraction:

• Instruct your child not to rinse, spit, or drink through a straw. They should also keep their fingers and tongue away from the area.

• If there is unusual or continuous bleeding, place a clean cotton gauze firmly over the extraction site and have your child bite down on it for 30 minutes. Repeat this every 30 minutes until the bleeding stops.

• Your child should stick to a soft diet for a day or two, or until they feel comfortable eating normally again.

• Avoid strenuous exercise and physical activity for the rest of the day.

• For discomfort, you can give your child Children's Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin as directed.

• If sensitivity or discomfort continues for more than 24 hours, please contact our office.

Having braces shouldn't drastically change your daily routine. You can still enjoy dining out, playing a musical instrument, and taking photos. By taking proper care of your braces, you'll be on your way to a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Activities:

• If you play a wind instrument, there are various mouthguards and lip protectors available, though you may not need them.

• For some sports, wearing a mouthguard is a good idea. We can provide recommendations at your next appointment based on your specific needs.

Diet & Eating:

• Choose softer foods and avoid anything that is particularly hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy.

• To make eating easier, try cutting or tearing foods like sandwiches and pizza into smaller pieces instead of biting directly into them.

• It's also a good idea to chop up hard foods like apples or carrots.

• Your teeth may be sensitive for a day or two after an adjustment. During this time, softer foods like pasta, soup, or a smoothie are great choices.

• Avoid chewing gum and ice.

Taking good care of your teeth and braces is essential for a healthy, beautiful smile. Follow all the instructions you're given, as specific steps can vary depending on the type of braces you have.

• Brush thoroughly after every meal or snack. Rinsing with water or mouthwash after you brush can help remove any leftover particles. A travel toothbrush is a great idea to carry with you when you're away from home.

• Before bed, be sure to brush thoroughly and floss carefully. This might take a little extra time, but it's a crucial step in maintaining your oral hygiene.

• Use a soft, rounded-bristle toothbrush in good condition. Your toothbrush will wear out faster with braces, so it's a good idea to keep some spares on hand. Don't forget to brush your tongue and rinse well when you're finished.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your aligner treatment is a success.

Do:

• Use your fingers to put your aligners in. First, place them over your front teeth, then gently push them down over your molars. Aligners will feel tight at first but should fit well by the end of the two-week period.

• Keep your aligners in except when you're flossing, brushing, or eating. It's also best to remove them when you drink warm beverages like coffee or tea.

• Remove the aligner by pulling it off both sides of your back teeth at the same time, then lifting it off of your front teeth.

• Put your aligners in the case we provided anytime you're not wearing them.

• Clean your aligners with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

• Wear each set of aligners for two weeks unless our office tells you to change the schedule.

• Wear the aligners in the correct numerical order. Each aligner is labeled by number and with a U or an L to designate upper or lower.

• Keep all of your old aligners and bring them to your orthodontic appointments.

Don't:

• Don't put your aligners in or on a napkin or tissue. Many aligners have been thrown away by accident this way!

• Don't use your teeth to "bite" your aligners into place.

• If you have pets, don't place your aligners anywhere they can reach them. Pets are attracted to saliva and might enjoy chewing on your trays.

• Don't use denture cleaner, alcohol, or bleach to clean your aligners.

• Don't use boiling or hot water on your aligners.

• Don't chew gum with your aligners in.

• It's best not to smoke while wearing aligners. The smoke can stain your aligners as well as your teeth.

Just in Case:

• If the bonding tab attached to your tooth comes off, please call our office right away. We'll let you know if you need to come in before your next scheduled appointment.

• If you lose one of your aligner trays, please wear the next tray if you have it. If you don't have the next tray, wear the previous tray. It is very important to wear a tray to keep your teeth from shifting. Call our office to let us know which tray was lost so we can determine if a replacement tray is needed. There will be a fee if replacement trays are required.

When you have braces, it's a good idea to keep some essential supplies on hand for maintenance and minor emergencies:

• Interdental or Proxabrushes can be used to clean around your wires and between your teeth without causing damage.

• Non-medicated orthodontic wax is great for covering any brackets or wires that might be irritating your gums.

• Antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce inflammation and prevent infection. For small sores, you can use Peroxyl, an antiseptic rinse with hydrogen peroxide, up to four times a day after brushing. Always follow the instructions on the product label.

• Dental floss, an interproximal brush, or a toothpick can help you carefully remove food that gets caught between your teeth or wires.

• Sterile tweezers are useful for putting orthodontic rubber bands back on if they come off.

• A Q-tip or a pencil eraser can be used to gently push a loose wire back against a tooth if it's bothering your cheeks or gums. If you can't get the wire into a comfortable position, cover the end with wax and call our office to schedule an adjustment.

• Salt can be used for warm salt-water rinses, which can help heal sore gums and other mouth tissues.

• Non-prescription pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with the temporary discomfort that sometimes occurs for a day or two after an orthodontic adjustment.

• Topical anesthetic treatments such as Orabase or Orajel can be applied with a Q-tip to any abrasions or sores that may appear in your mouth.