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Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Following these guidelines can help reduce complications and speed up your recovery.
Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Your Guide to a Smooth Dental Recovery
Preparing for treatment or healing afterward? Our Pre- and Post-Op Instructions are here to help you feel informed, comfortable, and confident. Whether you’re having an extraction, implant, or whitening, you’ll find easy-to-follow care tips tailored to each procedure — all designed to support a safe recovery and lasting results.
Click the buttons below to jump to the instructions for your procedure!
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Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Tooth Extraction
Before Your Extraction:
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Eat a light meal unless you’re instructed to fast (especially if sedation is used).
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Arrange for a ride if you’ll be sedated.
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Take all medications as prescribed.
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Avoid smoking or alcohol at least 24 hours before your appointment.
After Your Extraction:
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Bite down gently on the gauze pad for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding.
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Do not rinse, spit, or drink through a straw for 24 hours (this can cause dry socket).
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Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, or mashed potatoes for the first day.
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Use an ice pack on your cheek (20 minutes on, 20 off) for swelling.
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Take pain medication and antibiotics as directed.
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Avoid strenuous activity for 24–48 hours.
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Do not smoke for at least 72 hours.
Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Dental Implant Surgery
Before Your Implant:
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Follow fasting instructions if sedation is planned.
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Take prescribed antibiotics or medications ahead of time.
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Make sure someone can drive you home if you’re sedated.
After Your Implant:
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Expect some swelling and mild discomfort for a few days.
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Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
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Stick to a soft food diet for a few days — avoid chewing on the implant side.
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Rinse gently with warm saltwater after 24 hours (no vigorous rinsing).
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Keep the area clean but avoid brushing the implant site for a few days.
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Do not smoke, as it can delay healing.
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Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Periodontal Treatment (Deep Cleaning)
Before Your Treatment:
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Eat a good meal before your visit unless otherwise instructed.
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Let us know if you take blood thinners or other medications.
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You may be numbed, so plan some downtime after the procedure.
After Your Treatment:
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Your gums may feel sore and slightly swollen — this is normal.
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Rinse with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 8 oz water) 2–3 times a day.
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Avoid spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods for 24 hours.
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Resume brushing and flossing gently — oral hygiene is key to healing.
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Mild bleeding for a day or two is normal.
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If you were prescribed mouth rinse or antibiotics, use them exactly as directed.
Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Dental Fillings
Before Your Filling:
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No special preparation is typically needed.
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Let us know if you have sensitivity or anxiety — we’re here to help!
After Your Filling:
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If you were numbed, avoid eating until sensation returns to prevent biting your tongue or cheek.
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Avoid very hot or cold foods if your teeth feel sensitive (this is temporary).
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Avoid sticky or hard foods for at least 24 hours if you received a silver filling.
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Brush and floss as usual.
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Contact us if you notice prolonged pain, high bite, or sensitivity after several days.
Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Dental Crowns
Before Your Crown Prep:
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You’ll receive a temporary crown while the permanent one is made.
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Avoid sticky or very hard foods near the temporary crown.
After Temporary Crown Placement:
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Brush gently around the temporary.
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Avoid flossing aggressively (pull floss out sideways).
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Call us if your temporary crown comes off.
After Permanent Crown Placement:
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Some sensitivity to pressure or temperature is normal for a few days.
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Avoid chewing hard foods on the crown for 24 hours.
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Maintain excellent oral hygiene and routine cleanings.
Pre- & Post-Op Instructions
Teeth Whitening
Before Whitening:
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Have a dental cleaning beforehand for best results.
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Avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs before treatment unless directed.
After Whitening:
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Avoid staining foods and drinks for 48 hours (coffee, wine, tea, berries, etc.).
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No smoking for at least 48 hours.
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Use a straw for drinks that may stain.
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Teeth may be sensitive for a day or two — use sensitivity toothpaste if needed.
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Avoid extremely hot or cold foods.
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Continue brushing gently but thoroughly.
