Home care

Recovering after dental surgery

After a procedure such as an extraction, implant or gum surgery, you may have some pain, bleeding or swelling that should steadily improve. These general guidelines help you recover smoothly. Always follow the specific instructions you're given, and call us with any questions.

• Rest — plan for at least two days without physical activity, sometimes more
• Rinse gently with warm salt water if instructed; let the water fall from your mouth rather than spitting
• Keep brushing your other teeth gently, avoiding the surgical area as directed
• Protect the blood clot — for at least three days avoid smoking, straws, and carbonated or alcoholic drinks
• Eat soft foods like yogurt, oatmeal, applesauce, smoothies and broth
• Manage pain and swelling with medication as directed and an ice pack 30 minutes on, 15 off

This information is general and shouldn't replace medical advice from your provider. Call us if swelling worsens after two days, or if you develop a fever, difficulty swallowing, or pus.

Home care products we recommend

• Boka — fluoride-free toothpaste using nano-hydroxyapatite to replenish tooth minerals
• RiseWell — hydroxyapatite, silica and xylitol for a great clean (the kids' line is great too)
• Oral-B iO toothbrush — feedback that helps you stop brushing too hard
• Cordless Waterpik — makes cleaning around implant prosthetics easy
• Kleenite — for cleaning prosthetics that combine acrylic and metal