Numbness & Immediate Aftercare
The procedure uses local anesthesia, so your mouth will be numb for several hours. Avoid eating until the numbness wears off to prevent accidentally biting your cheeks or tongue.
Managing Pain
Mild to moderate soreness is expected for a few days. Options:
- Ibuprofen: 600 mg every 3-4 hours (not exceeding 2,400 mg/day)
- Acetaminophen: 1,000 mg every 4-6 hours (not exceeding 4,000 mg/day)
If antibiotics were prescribed, complete the full course exactly as directed.
Swelling & Bleeding
Minor swelling is normal. Apply ice in 20-minutes-on / 20-minutes-off cycles as needed.
Slight blood-tinged saliva is expected for 1-2 days. Warm saltwater rinses (1/4 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water) soothe gums and promote healing. If bleeding is heavy or persistent beyond 2 days, contact us.
Tooth Sensitivity
Sensitivity to hot and cold is common for several weeks as gums heal and settle. Keeping teeth clean reduces sensitivity — plaque irritates exposed root surfaces.
Dietary Guidelines
Once the anesthetic wears off you may eat normally, but avoid for the first few days:
- Sticky and hard foods (nuts, popcorn, chips, ice)
- Spicy and acidic foods
- Very hot foods due to increased sensitivity