Whether you’ve had a tooth extraction, dental implant, root canal, or gum surgery, the care you take after your procedure plays a huge role in how well (and how quickly) you heal.
Here are some essential post-op tips to help you recover comfortably and avoid complications.
💤 1. Rest and Take It Easy
Plan to rest for at least 24 hours after your procedure. Avoid:
- Strenuous activities or exercise
- Bending or heavy lifting
- Talking excessively or chewing on the affected side
Let your body focus on healing.
🧊 2. Manage Swelling and Pain
- Apply an ice pack to your cheek in 10–15 minute intervals for the first 24 hours
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter medications as directed
- Keep your head elevated while resting to reduce swelling
Most discomfort peaks within 1–2 days and improves steadily.
🥣 3. Follow a Soft Food Diet
Eat only soft, cool, or lukewarm foods such as:
- Applesauce
- Mashed potatoes
- Smoothies (no straws!)
- Oatmeal
- Scrambled eggs
Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that can irritate the site or dislodge clots.
🚫 4. Avoid Smoking, Alcohol, and Straws
These can slow healing or lead to dry socket (a painful condition after tooth extraction):
- No smoking for at least 72 hours
- No alcohol while healing or taking antibiotics
- Don’t use straws — the suction can disrupt healing
🪥 5. Keep It Clean — Gently
- Wait 24 hours before rinsing your mouth
- After that, gently rinse with warm salt water (not mouthwash)
- Brush and floss carefully, avoiding the surgical site
Good hygiene helps prevent infection, but it’s important not to be too aggressive around healing tissues.
🇨🇦 When to Call Your Dentist
If you notice any of the following, contact your dental clinic right away:
- Severe or prolonged pain
- Excessive bleeding after the first day
- Fever or chills
- Swelling that gets worse after 2–3 days
- Bad taste or pus from the site
Most Canadian clinics offer post-op support and can fit you in quickly if something doesn’t feel right.
We’re Here to Support a Healthy Recovery
We provide clear aftercare instructions and check in with patients after surgery. If you’ve had a procedure or have questions about your healing process, our team is here to help.
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Contact us today
with any concerns — your comfort and health come first.