1. Immediate Post-Treatment Instructions
What to Expect:
- Mild soreness or gum tenderness for 24–72 hours.
- Light bleeding when brushing or flossing for a few days.
- Possible temporary tooth sensitivity.
Do’s and Don’ts for the First 24–48 Hours:
- Do rinse gently with warm salt water (1/2 tsp salt in 8 oz water) up to 3 times a day.
- Do eat soft, cool-to-lukewarm foods for the first 24 hours.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products – it delays healing.
- Don’t chew hard, crunchy, or spicy foods on the treated area.
Pain Management:
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed.
- Use a cold compress (15 min on, 15 min off) if you experience swelling or discomfort.
2. Ongoing Care & Maintenance
Oral Hygiene Routine:
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush starting the day after treatment.
- Floss carefully to avoid irritating healing gums.
- Use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse (e.g., chlorhexidine) exactly as directed.
Products We Recommend:
- Desensitizing toothpaste for temporary sensitivity.
- Electric toothbrush with a gentle setting.
Lifestyle Tips:
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol for at least 48 hours.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy, balanced diet to support healing.
3. Recognizing Complications & When to Contact Oceanic Dental
Please contact us if you notice:
- Persistent bleeding that lasts more than 2 days
- Increased or severe swelling
- Signs of infection (pus, fever, or foul odor)
- Loose teeth or sudden gum recession
4. Recovery Tips & Best Practices
Support Healing With These Habits:
- Rinse after meals to keep your mouth clean.
- Avoid chewing on the treated side for a few days.
- Keep up with excellent daily brushing and flossing – this is key to gum recovery.
Helpful Reminder:"Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile – small steps each day make a big difference."
5. Follow-Up & Contact Information
We’ll likely schedule a follow-up within 4–6 weeks to check your healing and measure improvements in your gum health.
Questions or concerns? Call us anytime:
- Huntington Beach: (714) 841-0203
- Fountain Valley: (714) 378-0085
Thank you for partnering with Oceanic Dental on your journey to better gum health. We're here to support your smile every step of the way.
Oceanic Dental – Gentle, advanced gum disease care for patients in Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, and surrounding Orange County communities.