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Some discomfort after dental treatment is completely normal. But how do you know when something needs attention? Here's what to expect and when to contact us.
After Fillings and Crowns
Normal (first 2 weeks):
- Sensitivity to hot and cold
- Mild aching when biting
- Gum tenderness around the treated tooth
Manage with:
- Sensodyne toothpaste applied directly
- Avoiding very hot or cold foods
- Ibuprofen if needed
Call us if:
- Pain gets worse rather than better after 3-4 days
- Your bite feels "high" or uneven
- Sensitivity lasts longer than 2 weeks
- You develop facial swelling
After Extractions
Normal (first 48 hours):
- Some bleeding (should slow within a few hours)
- Swelling and bruising
- Aching pain
- Difficulty opening mouth fully
To help healing:
- Bite on gauze for 30 minutes to control bleeding
- Don't rinse on the day of extraction
- From day 2, rinse gently with warm salt water
- Take painkillers regularly for 2-3 days
- Eat soft foods on the opposite side
- No smoking for at least 48 hours
Call us if:
- Bleeding won't stop after 30 minutes of firm pressure
- Severe pain develops after 2-3 days (dry socket)
- Facial swelling increases
- You develop fever
After Root Canal Treatment
Normal:
- Tenderness for several days
- Mild discomfort when biting
- Some sensitivity in the area
Manage with:
- Pain relief (ibuprofen and paracetamol alternating)
- Soft foods
- Avoiding chewing on that side until the permanent crown is fitted
Call us if:
- Severe throbbing pain develops
- Facial swelling appears
- The temporary filling comes out
- Pain gets significantly worse after 3-4 days
After New Dentures or Braces
Normal:
- Sore spots where appliance rubs
- Difficulty speaking initially
- Increased saliva
- Mild discomfort
To help:
- Rinse with warm salt water 3 times daily
- For dentures: remove for 12 hours if very sore, rub sore areas with toothpaste on a damp cloth
- Orthodontic wax can cover sharp edges on braces
Call us if:
- Sore spots don't improve with adjustments
- Ulcers develop that aren't healing
- Braces become loose or brackets detach
Temporary Crowns and Fillings
Temporary restorations are meant to last 2-3 weeks until your permanent one is ready.
To protect them:
- Avoid sticky foods (toffee, chewing gum)
- Don't chew hard foods on that side
- Brush gently around the area
If it comes loose:
- Clean both the temporary and your tooth
- Re-fix with denture adhesive
- Call us to have it properly re-cemented
Don't leave the tooth uncovered for more than 48 hours.