Postoperative Instructions: Restorative and Cosmetic Care
To Minimize Symptoms:
- Hydrate well. Drink one or two bottles of water in the first few hours after treatment.
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To eliminate possible injury to your tongue and/or cheeks, avoid chewing until the numbness from the anesthetic has worn off and feeling has completely returned.
Diet:
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Use the soft diet as recommended. Please refer to the “dental soft diet.”
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Avoid using your prototypes (temporaries) for biting or tearing into food.
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Avoid sticky foods such as gum, caramels, taffy, etc.
Home Care:
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Brush gently and thoroughly, even if gums are tender.
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Mouth rinsing is recommended. Please refer to “Medications” on this page.
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Do not floss the prototypes (temporaries).
Speech:
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Certain letters like S, T, F or V may be slurred at first. This usually improves after two weeks. Practice reading out loud to speed your recovery.
Cold Sores:
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Cold sores on your lip, cheek or gum may result from your appointment. These are viral reactions and will gradually heal on their own. Specific medications, either over-the-counter or prescription, can be recommended if you feel you need them.
Discomfort/Pain:
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Should not be severe and usually subsides within a few hours to a few days. To help with discomfort, take over-the-counter medications or medications we prescribed.
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Gums may be irritated or discolored; this will also subside in a few days. A mouth rinse may be recommended. Please refer to “Medications” below.
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Teeth may be sensitive to temperature (hot/cold) or sweets. The sensitivity can be intense and should subside quickly. A fluoride gel, sensitive toothpaste and rinse are recommended. Please refer to “Medications” below.
Medications:
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Prescription Medication (RX if given)
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Medications given to you:
- Closys II paste & rinse. Recommended.
- Chlorahexadine. As directed.
- Motrin 600mg. As directed.
- Tylenol 500 mg. As directed.
- Other. Take as directed.
Failure to follow the above instructions may lead to complications in your treatment.
Please call our office if you have any questions.
847-870-8820