1. Immediate Post-Treatment Instructions
What to Expect:
- Mild sensitivity to pressure, temperature, or sweet foods is normal and can last a few days to a few weeks.
- If anesthesia was used, your lips, cheeks, or tongue may remain numb for 1–3 hours.
If You Were Numbed (Local Anesthesia):
- Be careful not to bite your cheek, lip, or tongue while numb.
- Avoid chewing on the numbed side until sensation returns.
- Watch children closely if they received anesthesia to prevent accidental injury.
Do’s and Don’ts for the First 24 Hours:
- Do eat soft foods and chew slowly until numbness wears off.
- Don’t consume extremely hot foods or drinks until you regain full sensation.
- Don’t chew gum or hard foods (like nuts or candy) on newly filled teeth right away.
If You Had Multiple or Large Fillings:
- Your bite may feel different for the first few days. If it still feels "off" after 2–3 days, call us for a quick adjustment.
- You may experience soreness in the jaw if your mouth was open for a long period – apply a warm compress and rest the muscles as needed.
2. Ongoing Care & Maintenance
Oral Hygiene Routine:
- Brush gently twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily to prevent decay around the filling.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.
Sensitivity Tips:
- If sensitivity lingers, try desensitizing toothpaste (like Sensodyne).
- Avoid whitening products until sensitivity resolves.
Protecting Your Fillings:
- Avoid chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects.
- If you grind or clench your teeth, ask us about a custom nightguard to prevent damage.
3. Recognizing Complications & When to Contact Oceanic Dental
Please call us if you experience:
- Pain when biting that doesn’t improve after a few days
- Sensitivity that worsens over time instead of getting better
- A rough or sharp edge on the filling
- Cracks, chips, or pieces of filling coming loose
4. Recovery Tips & Best Practices
Quick Tips for a Comfortable Recovery:
- Wait until numbness wears off before eating full meals.
- Drink water and stay hydrated to keep your mouth feeling fresh.
- Use a warm saltwater rinse (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz water) to soothe gum tissue if it feels irritated.
Reminder:"A little sensitivity is normal – your tooth just needs time to adjust."
5. Follow-Up & Contact Information
Most fillings require no follow-up, but if you have concerns about bite, comfort, or durability, don’t hesitate to reach out:
- Huntington Beach: (714) 841-0203
- Fountain Valley: (714) 378-0085
Thank you for being part of the Oceanic Dental family. We’re here to help you maintain strong, healthy teeth with gentle care and lasting solutions.
Oceanic Dental – Reliable, beautiful composite fillings for patients in Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and surrounding Orange County communities.
