Extraction aftercare
Ideally, rest by sitting in a chair and use an extra pillow for the first night. Do not drink anything alcoholic for 24 hours and avoid smoking. Avoid cycling or excessive exercise for several hours.
Take any pain-killing tablets as advised by your dentist. Follow any instructions regarding dosage carefully. After six hours, rinse your mouth gently with a warm salt solution (level teaspoon of salt to a cup of water) and continue after meals and before bed for seven days, or as advised by your dentist. You may feel the sharp edge of a socket with your tongue and occasionally small fragments of bone may work their way out. This is normal. Try not to disturb the socket with your tongue, by eating food on that side or by vigorous rinsing. This will delay the healing process.
If excessive bleeding occurs…
Use some clean linen or gauze about 1 ½” (4cm) wide to make a roll of 1” (2.5 cm) thick, thus forming a firm pad, or use a clean handkerchief. Make a few such pads if necessary. Keep sitting up and clear the mouth of loose blood clots with a clean linen square or tissue so that you can find where the socket is bleeding. This is important. Place the pad across the bleeding socket from the tongue to the cheek side. If the socket is between two standing teeth then constrict the pad to fit. Bite firmly to compress the pad on the bleeding socket for 10-15 minutes. Avoid lying down. Inspect the socket and replace the pad, or use another one if bleeding still appears from the socket. If your efforts are unsuccessful after an hour or two contact your dentist. It is not unusual to experience swelling or discomfort for a few days. However, if pain, swelling or bleeding persists contact the dentist…but remember, if excessive bleeding does not occur it is important to avoid exercise, drinking alcohol or disturbing the socket.
Root canal treatment aftercare
Will the tooth be safe after treatment?
Yes. However, it is better to restore the tooth with a crown to provide extra support and strength to the tooth.
What will my teeth look like after treatment?
In the past, a root filled tooth would often darken after treatment. However, with modern techniques this does not usually happen. If there is any discoloration, there are several treatments available to restore its natural appearance.
What about aftercare?
You may get an ache for a few days after treatment. Take any pain-killing tablets as advised by your dentist. Follow any instructions regarding dosage carefully.
Root-treated teeth should be treated in just the same way as any other tooth. Remember to clean your teeth at least once a day, preferably with fluoride toothpaste. Cut down on sugary snacks or keep them to mealtimes only if possible. See your dentist for regular examinations.
Denture aftercare
What will my dentures feel like?
New dentures may feel awkward or even uncomfortable for a few weeks until you become accustomed to them. The dentures may feel loose while the muscles of your cheek and tongue learn to keep them in place. Should this continue, consult your dentist.
It is not unusual to experience minor irritation or soreness during this period. You may also find that saliva flow temporarily increases. As your mouth becomes accustomed to the dentures, these problems should diminish. If any problems persist, particularly irritation or soreness, be sure to consult your dentist.
How do I take care of my dentures?
The general rule is – brush, soak, brush. Always clean your dentures over a bowl of water or a folded towel in case you drop them. Brush your dentures before soaking to help remove any food debris. Using an effervescent (fizzy) denture cleaner will help remove stubborn stains and leave your denture feeling fresher. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Then brush the dentures again, as you would your own teeth, being careful not to scrub too hard as this may cause grooves in the surface. Most dentists advise using toothpaste and a small to medium headed toothbrush. Make sure you clean all the surfaces of the dentures, including the surface which touches your gums. This is especially important if you use any kind of denture fixative. If you notice a build-up of stains or scale, have your denture cleaned by your dentist or hygienist.
