After Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
- It’s normal to have mild soreness or sensitivity for a few days.
- Avoid eating until numbness wears off.
- Stick to soft foods for the rest of the day.
- Gently brush and floss—keeping the area clean helps healing.
- Warm saltwater rinses (½ tsp salt in a cup of warm water) 2–3 times daily can help with tenderness.
- Avoid smoking for at least 24 hours.
- Some slight bleeding is normal—if it continues or worsens, please contact our office.
After a Crown Appointment
- Avoid chewing on the numb side until feeling returns.
- If you have a temporary crown:
- Avoid sticky or hard foods (gum, caramel, ice).
- Floss carefully—slide floss out rather than pulling up.
- Mild sensitivity to hot/cold is normal.
- If your temporary crown comes off, please call us so we can re-cement it.
- Once your final crown is placed, continue normal brushing and flossing daily.
After a Filling
- Avoid chewing until numbness has worn off.
- It’s normal to have mild sensitivity to temperature or pressure for a few days.
- If your bite feels uneven or “high,” give us a call—this can be adjusted quickly.
- Continue brushing and flossing as normal.

