Post Op Instructions

Today you have had a tooth-colored composite filling on one or more of your teeth. The following are some commonly asked questions that may arise following today’s visit.

Your Bite

As long as you are numb, your bite may feel uneven. But if it feels that way even after the anesthetic wears off, please call our office. If your bite remains uneven for a long period of time, it may precipitate a sore tooth.

Chewing

There are no restrictions to chewing on your new composites; however, local anesthetic was used for the preparation, so please be careful when biting or talking so that you do not bite your lip, cheek, or tongue while you are numb. You won’t feel it, and you can damage the soft tissues. Avoid chewing until the anesthetic dissipates.

After the Procedure

It is possible that you may experience some slight sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures following the appointment. If the sensitivity lasts longer than 7 days, contact our office. Also, the gum around your tooth may be slightly tender for about 24-48 hours. We recommend that you rinse three times a day with warm salt-water rinses to reduce any form of swelling that may have occurred. You may have a feeling of soreness or bruising around the area where the anesthetic was given. This should dissipate within 48 hours.