Post-Treatment Instructions – Westlake Dental Care

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Adjusting to Your New Bite

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After dental procedures, it can take several days for your brain to adjust to the new position or thickness of your teeth. This is normal. If you feel that your bite is uneven or notice a high spot, please contact our office to schedule an adjustment.

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Sensitivity to hot and cold is common and should fade as your teeth heal. Sore gums can be relieved with warm salt water rinses (1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times daily. For general discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol or ibuprofen every 3–4 hours can help.

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It’s also normal to experience increased saliva or temporary changes in speech — both should subside within a week.

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Daily brushing and flossing are essential to protect your dental work. Avoid hard or sticky foods and minimize items that stain such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries. Smoking will also stain your restorations.

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If you play sports, ask us about a custom mouthguard. If you grind your teeth, be sure to wear your night guard to protect your new dental work.

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Please reach out if you have any concerns.

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After Crown and Bridge Appointments

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Crowns and bridges are typically completed in two or three visits. During the first appointment, your teeth are prepared, and impressions are taken. Temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect your teeth. While numb, avoid eating and drinking hot beverages until the numbness wears off.

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If your temporary crown comes off, contact us immediately and bring it with you. Keeping it in place prevents teeth from shifting and ensures proper fit of the final restoration.

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To protect your temporary:

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• Avoid sticky and hard foods

• Chew on the opposite side

• Brush gently and floss carefully to avoid dislodging it

 

It’s normal to feel some sensitivity to temperature or pressure after each visit. This usually subsides a few weeks after the final crown or bridge is placed. Pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen can be used as needed.

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If your bite feels off or you experience ongoing pain, call our office.

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After Tooth Extraction

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After an extraction, it’s important for a blood clot to form to start the healing process. Bite on gauze for 30–45 minutes immediately after the procedure. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite firmly again. Repeat as needed.

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To protect the clot and promote healing:

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• Do not rinse vigorously

• Avoid straws, smoking, and alcohol

• Do not brush near the extraction site for 72 hours

• Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours

 

Swelling and mild discomfort are common. Use an ice pack for 15–20 minutes at a time for the first 48 hours. Take pain medication as prescribed.

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Continue prescribed antibiotics for the full course, even if symptoms improve. Stick to soft, nutritious foods the day of the extraction, and return to your normal diet as tolerated.

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After 24 hours, resume your normal dental hygiene routine to support healing.

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Call us right away if you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, persistent swelling, or a reaction to any medication.

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After Composite Fillings (White Fillings)

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Following composite fillings, you may feel numb in your lips or tongue for several hours. Avoid eating or drinking hot beverages until sensation returns to prevent injury.

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Sensitivity to temperature and pressure is normal and should subside. Injection sites may feel sore — over-the-counter medications like Tylenol, ibuprofen, or aspirin can help ease discomfort.

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Composite fillings are fully hardened when you leave our office, so you may chew on them as soon as the numbness wears off.

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If your bite feels uneven or you experience persistent discomfort, please call our office so we can make any necessary adjustments.

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If you have any questions after your procedure or experience unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to support your recovery and help ensure long-term success.