Post-Op Instructions

Post-Operative Dental Instructions

Thank you for trusting Hill Family Dental for your dental care. To help ensure a smooth, comfortable recovery, we’ve provided detailed post-operative instructions for each type of treatment. Following these guidelines can help speed healing, minimize discomfort, and prevent complications.

Teeth Cleaning (Deep Cleaning)

After a deep cleaning, you may notice temporary sensitivity to hot and cold, especially if anesthesia was used. Avoid eating until the numbness wears off. Continue your regular brushing and flossing routine, and expect minor bleeding for a day or two. If bleeding becomes excessive or you experience significant pain, call our Orem office right away.

Fillings

After receiving a filling, avoid chewing until the anesthesia wears off to prevent accidental injury to your lips or tongue. If possible, take 600 mg of Ibuprofen every six hours for the first two days to reduce discomfort and inflammation.

• Silver fillings: Avoid eating for one hour and stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours.
• White fillings: If your bite feels “high” or uncomfortable, contact us for an adjustment.

Temperature sensitivity is common and should decrease within a few weeks. If pain persists for more than a few days, please call our office.

Extractions

After an extraction, place firm pressure on the site using a gauze pad for one hour. Replace gauze and repeat for an additional 45 minutes if bleeding continues.
Important precautions for the first 24 hours:

• Avoid hot foods or drinks
• Do not rinse, spit, or use a straw
• Avoid carbonated beverages

These steps help prevent dry socket. Brush gently starting the next day. Use ice packs and any prescribed medications to control pain, bruising, and swelling. Stick to soft foods and liquids for 2–3 days, and avoid hard, crunchy foods for one week.

Call us immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or significant swelling. For emergencies, dial 911.

Crowns and Bridges (Including Inlays & Onlays)

These treatments usually require two appointments. At the first visit, your tooth is prepared, impressions are taken, and a temporary crown is placed. Some sensitivity and gum soreness are normal.

• Avoid chewing until numbness subsides.
• Treat temporary crowns gently — avoid sticky or hard foods and be cautious when flossing.
• If a temporary crown comes off, save it and contact us immediately.

After your permanent restoration is placed, mild pressure or bite changes may be noticeable for a few days. If discomfort lasts beyond 2–3 days, call our office for an adjustment.

Root Canal Treatment

You may experience moderate pain, pressure sensitivity, and gum soreness for several days. Take prescribed medications as directed.

Avoid chewing on the treated side until a permanent restoration is placed. Continue brushing and flossing as normal, and attend your follow-up appointment promptly to avoid complications. Contact us if you experience severe pain or swelling.

Denture Delivery

New dentures often require an adjustment period. Remove them nightly and store them in water or a denture cleaning solution to allow your gums to rest. Brush dentures with water before reinserting.

Speech changes are normal at first — practice reading aloud to adapt more quickly. If discomfort or soreness persists, schedule an adjustment at our Orem office.

If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, please call Hill Family Dental. Your comfort, safety, and long-term oral health are our top priorities.