Extended dental procedures, whether for restorative, cosmetic, or surgical treatments, often require patients to keep their mouth open for prolonged periods. While this is essential for completing complex dental work, it can lead to lip dryness, cracking, irritation, or soreness after treatment.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we believe post-treatment care should extend beyond just teeth and gums. Your lips are an important part of your comfort and healing process. This guide provides effective strategies for post-treatment lip care after extended dental work, helping you recover comfortably and maintain oral health.
Why Do Lips Become Dry or Sore After Dental Work?
Keeping your mouth open for an extended time during procedures can stretch the delicate skin on your lips, leading to:
Dryness or flaking
Cracking, especially at the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis)
Minor swelling or redness
Increased sensitivity, especially if dental tools come in contact with the lips
Is Lip Discomfort Normal After Dental Treatment?
Yes. Experiencing minor lip discomfort, tightness, or dryness is common after procedures like:
Full mouth restorations
Dental implant surgeries
Orthodontic appliance placements
Crown and veneer preparation
Complex fillings or root canals
Effective Tips for Post-Treatment Lip Care
1. Apply Lip Balm Immediately After Treatment
As soon as the procedure is finished, apply a hydrating, fragrance-free lip balm or ointment.
Look for ingredients like petroleum jelly, shea butter, lanolin, or beeswax, which lock in moisture and prevent cracking.
2. Continue Moisturizing Regularly
Apply lip balm every 2 to 3 hours for the first 24 to 48 hours post-treatment.
Reapply before meals, before bed, and after drinking fluids.
3. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to maintain internal hydration, which directly supports lip moisture.
Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages that can dehydrate the body.
4. Avoid Licking Your Lips
While licking may feel like a temporary solution, it actually worsens dryness.
Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips drier than before.
5. Protect Lips from External Irritants
Avoid spicy, acidic, or salty foods that can sting cracked lips.
Protect lips from cold weather or wind exposure by applying a thicker barrier balm when outdoors.
6. Use Gentle Lip Treatments at Night
Apply a thicker layer of ointment like petroleum jelly or a lip mask overnight to support deep hydration and healing.
7. Avoid Picking or Peeling Flaky Skin
Let damaged skin heal naturally.
Picking can cause bleeding, delay healing, and even lead to infection.
Home Remedies for Severely Dry or Cracked Lips
Honey: Natural antibacterial properties and a soothing effect when applied lightly.
Aloe Vera Gel: Helps reduce inflammation and moisturizes effectively.
Coconut Oil: Provides gentle hydration with antibacterial properties.
Foods to Support Lip Healing
Focus on foods rich in vitamin E, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), and omega-3 fatty acids, which promote skin repair.
Examples include eggs, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fish.
Avoid These After Dental Work to Protect Your Lips
Spicy and acidic foods
Salty snacks like chips or pretzels
Lipsticks or lip stains with harsh chemicals
Excessive sun exposure without lip SPF protection
Hot drinks immediately post-treatment (especially if lips are inflamed)
When to Contact McLevin Dental Clinic
While mild lip irritation is normal, contact us if you experience:
Cracks that bleed and do not heal within 5 to 7 days
Persistent pain, swelling, or oozing from the lip area
Signs of infection such as pus, redness, or warmth in the corners of the mouth
Difficulty opening the mouth comfortably due to lip tightness
Our dental team can recommend medicated ointments or evaluate for possible conditions like angular cheilitis, which may require targeted treatment.
Protecting Your Lips for Future Dental Visits
Before future dental appointments, apply a protective layer of lip balm before arriving.
Let the dental team know if youre prone to lip cracking so extra care can be taken during procedures.
Continue hydrating before, during (if possible), and after your visit.
Your Comfort Goes Beyond Your Teeth
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we believe a successful dental procedure means not only achieving excellent dental results but also ensuring our patients remain as comfortable as possible including the health of your lips and soft tissues.
Our caring dental team is always ready to provide tips, treatments, and preventive advice to make every visit and every recovery smooth and stress-free.
Schedule Your Post-Treatment Check-Up Today
Experiencing discomfort after extended dental work or need advice on recovery care? Contact McLevin Dental Clinic today to schedule your follow-up appointment. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your complete comfort and oral health from start to finish.