These are general guidelines from our Hebron office. If anything we sent home with you differs, follow the specific instructions for your case — and call (740) 527-0700 if something does not feel right.
After a tooth extraction or wisdom teeth removal
The first 24 hours protect the blood clot that fills the socket. Lose that clot and you get a dry socket, which hurts more than the extraction did.
- Bite on gauze with firm pressure for 30–45 minutes.
- No straws, no spitting, no smoking for 72 hours — the suction pulls the clot out.
- Skip carbonated drinks and alcohol for 2–3 days.
- Eat soft, lukewarm foods: yogurt, eggs, mashed potatoes, smoothies eaten with a spoon.
- Starting day two, rinse gently with warm salt water after meals.
- Use ice on the cheek, 20 minutes on and 20 off, to limit swelling.
After a root canal
The treated tooth may feel tender for a few days as the area settles. That is normal.
- Avoid chewing on that tooth until the permanent crown is placed.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers handle most discomfort.
- Call us if pain climbs after day three or swelling appears.
After a crown or filling
- If you were numbed, wait until sensation returns before eating, so you do not bite your cheek.
- With a temporary crown, avoid sticky and hard foods that could pull it off.
- Mild cold sensitivity for a week or two is common and usually fades.
After teeth whitening
- For 48 hours, avoid staining foods and drinks: coffee, tea, red wine, berries, tomato sauce.
- Temporary sensitivity to cold is normal; a sensitivity toothpaste helps.
When to call us
Reach the office at (740) 527-0700 if you notice any of these:
- Bleeding that will not slow after a few hours of pressure
- Swelling or pain that worsens after the third day
- Fever, or a bad taste that will not go away
- A reaction to prescribed medication