Caring for Yourself Before & After Treatment
Follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth procedure and speedy recovery. When in doubt, call your nearest dentistportage office.
Before Your Appointment
Eat a light meal before your visit unless instructed otherwise. Take your regular medications unless your specialist advises you to skip a dose. Arrange for a driver if you'll be receiving sedation. Bring your insurance card, referral (if any), and a list of current medications.
After Extractions or Oral Surgery
Bite gently on the gauze pad for 30–60 minutes. Avoid rinsing, spitting, or using a straw for 24 hours. Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off. Stick to soft, cool foods for the first day. Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least 48 hours.
After Root Canal Therapy
Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until it's fully restored with a crown. Take over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Some tenderness for a few days is normal. Call us if you experience severe pain, swelling, or an allergic reaction to medication.
After Implant Placement
Follow the same guidelines as for oral surgery. Keep the surgical area clean by gently rinsing with warm salt water after 24 hours. Attend all follow-up appointments. Do not disturb the surgical site with your tongue or fingers.
After Sedation or General Anaesthesia
You must have a responsible adult drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. Do not drive, operate machinery, drink alcohol, or sign legal documents for the rest of the day. Rest and hydrate. Expect some grogginess and nausea — this is normal.
When to Call Us
Contact your dentistportage office immediately if you experience: prolonged bleeding (more than a few hours), severe pain not relieved by medication, fever over 38.5°C, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, hives).