What is Causing Your Post-Procedural Dental Problems?

May 20th, 2015

Are you experiencing complications after dental treatment or a procedure? Maybe your bridge, crown, gums or tooth are not allowing you to chew normally or you’re experiencing abnormal sensitivity? While some short-term side effects are normal, prolonged post-op dental pain can be problematic.

Normal Responses to Dental Treatment & Oral Surgery

Whether you have a routine oral procedure or a more serious interventional procedure, you may experience some of the following typical discomforts:

• Bruising of your skin and gums
• Minor bleeding
• Pain at the implant site
• Swelling of your gums and face

If you are experiencing a restricted opening, pain while chewing, or bite problems, you may be dealing with more serious issues affecting your jaw joint and muscles. If so, it is important to reach out to the orofacial professionals at Raleigh Facial Pain Center as quickly as possible.

Post-Procedural Oral Care Guidelines

• Following a dental procedure or oral surgery, there are certain guidelines you can follow that will lessen the risk of developing post-op complications:
• Be gentle when brushing and flossing.
• Do not chew or bite on the treated tooth until you have had it restored by your dentist.
• Do not eat anything until the numbness in your mouth wears off. This will prevent you from biting your cheek or tongue. Avoid hot liquids as they increase blood flow.
• If the opening in your tooth was restored with a temporary filling material, it is not unusual for a thin layer to wear off in-between appointments. However, if you think the entire filling has come out, contact your endodontist.
• Contact your endodontist right away if you develop any of the following:
  • An allergic reaction to medication, including rash, hives or itching (nausea is not an allergic reaction)
  • A return of original symptoms
  • Visible swelling inside or outside of your mouth
  • Your bite feels uneven

Potential Problems Experienced During Recovery & How to Address Them

Bleeding – After the procedure, some bleeding is common due to the cutting or disruption of tissue. Rinse or wipe old clots from your mouth, then place gauze over the area.

Dry socket – This may develop after a tooth has been extracted. These are more common among smokers. Placing a dressing with anesthetic in the socket will help ease the pain.

Swelling and pain – Apply an ice pack when you first start to notice the swelling and heat after the first 36 hours. Your doctor may prescribe medication or you can take over-the-counter medication such as Aspirin. If the pain does not ease up within 48 hours, call your doctor.

Let Us Help Alleviate Your Post-Procedural Dental Problems

No two mouths are the same! Ongoing pain can be debilitating, discouraging and frustrating so let board certified and residency trained Dr. Keith A. Yount and the specialists at Raleigh Facial Pain Center be there for you. Reach out to us by phone at (919) 781-6600 or online for more information about oral care.