New Patients
Patient Instructions
Follow these care guidelines after your dental procedure to ensure a smooth, comfortable recovery.
Your Recovery Matters to Us
Proper aftercare is essential to the success of your dental treatment. Below you'll find detailed instructions for the most common procedures performed at MAK Dental. If you have any concerns or questions not covered here, please don't hesitate to call our office.
After a Tooth Extraction
- Bite firmly on the gauze pad placed over the extraction site for 30–45 minutes to control bleeding.
- Avoid rinsing, spitting forcefully, or using a straw for the first 24 hours to protect the blood clot.
- Apply an ice pack to your cheek in 20-minute intervals to reduce swelling.
- Take prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication as directed.
- Eat soft foods such as yogurt, soup, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products for at least 72 hours after extraction.
After a Root Canal
- Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until a permanent restoration (crown) is placed.
- Some sensitivity and mild discomfort is normal for a few days — take pain relievers as needed.
- Continue brushing and flossing normally, being gentle around the treated area.
- Contact our office if you experience severe pain, swelling, or a return of original symptoms.
- Schedule your follow-up appointment promptly to have your permanent crown placed.
After a Dental Crown or Bridge
- Avoid sticky or hard foods for 24 hours after a temporary crown is placed.
- If your temporary crown comes off, call our office immediately and keep the crown safe.
- Some sensitivity to hot and cold is normal and should subside within a few weeks.
- Floss carefully around the crown — slide the floss out sideways rather than lifting it up.
- If your bite feels uneven after the anesthesia wears off, contact us for a quick adjustment.
After Teeth Whitening
- Avoid dark-colored foods and beverages (coffee, tea, red wine, berries) for 48 hours.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products for at least 48 hours after treatment.
- Tooth sensitivity is common and temporary — use a sensitivity toothpaste if needed.
- Maintain results by brushing twice daily and scheduling regular professional cleanings.
- Use your take-home whitening trays as directed to maintain your bright smile.
After Dental Implant Surgery
- Bite on gauze for the first hour and replace as needed to control bleeding.
- Apply ice packs to the outside of your face for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off for the first 24 hours.
- Eat only soft foods and liquids for the first week. Avoid the implant site when chewing.
- Do not rinse vigorously or spit for 24 hours. After 24 hours, rinse gently with warm salt water.
- Take all prescribed antibiotics and pain medications as directed.
- Avoid smoking — it significantly impairs healing and implant success.
After a Filling
- Avoid chewing on the filled tooth until the anesthesia has completely worn off.
- Some sensitivity to pressure, air, sweet foods, and temperature is normal for a few weeks.
- If your bite feels high or uneven, contact us — a simple adjustment can resolve this quickly.
- Continue brushing and flossing normally around the filled tooth.
General Care Tips
Stay hydrated and maintain good oral hygiene throughout your recovery.
Avoid strenuous physical activity for 24–48 hours after any surgical procedure.
Never ignore unusual pain, swelling, or bleeding — call our office right away.
Keep all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and treatment success.
Experiencing an emergency?
If you have severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or significant swelling, call us immediately at (707) 554-2600.
Have Questions About Your Recovery?
Our team is here to help. Don't hesitate to reach out if you're experiencing any concerns after your procedure.