
Tips on Home Care in Lakemore, OH
At Dennis Dental Care, we understand that adjusting to new dental work can be a significant transition. Whether you've undergone cosmetic dental reconstruction, received dental crowns or bridges, had a tooth extraction, or obtained new fillings, proper home care is essential to ensure optimal healing and long-term success.
We are committed to providing comprehensive guidance for post-procedure home care to our patients and the surrounding areas in Lakemore, OH. We help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.
Getting Used To Your New Bite With Home Care in Lakemore
- Adaptation Period: As your teeth settle into their new alignment, it may take a few days for your brain to recognize this as the new normal. You might notice slight changes in your bite or speech during this time. This is a typical part of the adaptation process.
- Sensitivity: It's common to experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures as your teeth heal. This sensitivity should gradually diminish over time. To manage discomfort, consider using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth and avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages.
- Gum Soreness: Minor gum soreness can occur for a few days post-procedure. To alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling, rinse your mouth gently with warm salt water (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times a day.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin), can be taken every 3-4 hours to manage pain. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions.
- When to Contact Us: If you experience prolonged discomfort, significant changes in your bite, or any other concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to Dennis Dental Care. Our home care services in Lakemore, OH, are here to assist you and ensure your recovery is on track.
Adjusting To Cosmetic Dental Reconstruction with Dennis Dental Care
- Speech: You may notice slight changes in your speech during the first few days as your tongue and oral muscles adapt to the new dental work. This adjustment is temporary, and normal speech patterns typically resume quickly.
- Salivation: An increase in saliva production is common as your brain responds to the changes in your mouth. This usually normalizes within a few days.
- Oral Hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for the longevity of your dental work. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at our clinic will help long-term success.
- Dietary Considerations: To protect your new dental work, avoid foods that can cause damage, such as hard nuts, peanut brittle, ice, and sticky candies. Additionally, limit your consumption of stain-causing substances like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries to maintain the aesthetic appearance.
- Protective Gear: If you participate in sports, consider using a custom protective mouthguard to safeguard your teeth. A night guard can prevent potential damage for those who grind their teeth at night. Our team can provide customized solutions tailored to your needs.
How To Care for Dental Crowns and Bridges With Homecare in Lakemore?
Receiving dental crowns or bridges typically involves multiple appointments, and proper care during this period is indeed vital. Our dentist can provide you with assistance with home care in Lakemore, OH.
While waiting for your permanent restorations, temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect your teeth. During this time, avoid sticky foods and hard substances that could dislodge or damage the temporary restorations. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
It's normal to experience sensitivity to temperature and pressure after each visit, which may last for a few weeks. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort. Additionally, due to anesthesia, your tongue, lips, and mouth may feel numb.
Continue to practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily. Proper maintenance of your restorations will ensure their longevity and prevent complications.
Contact our dentist in Lakemore and bring the crown with you so we can re-cement it. Prompt action will protect your tooth and maintain the progress of your treatment.
Post-Tooth Extraction Homecare In Lakemore
- After the extraction, bite down on a gauze pad for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding. If bleeding continues, replace the gauze and bite down again.
- Take prescribed pain relievers as directed. Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen can also help manage discomfort. Applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek in 15-minute intervals can reduce swelling.
- A blood clot protects the socket to aid healing. It's essential not to disturb it. Avoid using straws, smoking, and vigorous rinsing, as these actions can lead to dry sockets.
How To Care for Dental Fillings After Operation At Dennis Dental Care?
- Allow your filling time to settle. Avoid eating or drinking for at least one hour to prevent irritation. For the first 24 hours, stick to soft foods and avoid hard or sticky items.
- Mild sensitivity to hot or cold is normal for a few days. However, if sensitivity persists, contact our clinic promptly.
- Brush gently around the filling area for the next few days, avoiding excessive pressure.
- If you experience any discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers can help. Stay hydrated and limit sugary drinks to maintain oral hygiene.
- Your filling may be too high if you notice persistent sensitivity when biting, but a quick adjustment can help relieve discomfort.
- Proper care ensures the longevity of your filling. If discomfort lasts more than five days, schedule a reevaluation.