When you undergo a dental procedure, Dr. Hoang Truong will provide you with a set of post-operative instructions so that you can heal and recover most effectively. It is important to follow these instructions so that you can prevent infection and minimize the risk of complications. If you have any further questions as to how to care for your mouth, our helpful dental team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you do have any questions, it is important that you should ask them so that you can understand the recovery process and responsibly care for your mouth as it heals.

Our caring dentist at Gateway Oaks Dental will listen to all of your questions and concerns and make time to thoroughly talk with you before and after your procedure. You will also be given a phone number to call if you have any further questions after leaving our office.

Before your operation, we suggest that you write down any questions that you may have regarding your post-operative care. Having all of your important questions ready to ask the dentist when the time comes can make you feel more at ease and help the procedure run smoothly.

Some important questions to consider asking:

What should I do to help with the pain after my procedure?

Following any dental procedure, our dentists will provide you with specific instructions to remain comfortable during your recovery period. You can also take basic steps to speed up your recovery. To reduce swelling, apply ice packs to your face at 15-minute intervals. Eat only soft foods for a day or so, until the sensitivity in your mouth reduces. Take extra care to brush and floss gently around the site of the procedure. Take pain relievers as directed by your dentist or doctor.

Will I need to maintain a special diet?

You may need to eat only soft foods, or even liquids, for a few days following the procedure. Chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid disrupting any brand-new dental work. Our dentists will provide you with detailed instructions regarding your diet and when you can resume your normal meal habits.

How long will the pain and discomfort last?

Discomfort following a procedure varies from treatment to treatment and patient to patient. Our dentists will ensure that you remain as comfortable as possible during the procedure and recommend any necessary pain relievers to ease your recovery process.

Will I need antibiotics or medications?
If necessary, our dentists may recommend an antibiotic or medication to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing. To avoid potential negative reactions, we ask that you notify our office in advance if you already take prescription medication. Please take the recommended antibiotic or medication as directed by our dentists.
Do I need to come back for another visit? When?

Most dental procedures require a follow-up visit to ensure the process was successful. Some procedures require more than one visit to complete the treatment. Our office will determine when your next visit is necessary and will help you select a date and time that best fits your schedule.

How do I care for my prosthesis?
While dental prostheses cannot be affected by tooth decay, they still need to be cared for to prolong their longevity. You may need to eat only soft foods for a few days and chew carefully on the opposite side of your prosthesis. Adopt a thorough oral care routine that caters to your specific type of prosthesis. If you still have natural teeth, you will need to brush and floss each day, even around the dental implant, crown, or bridge. Removable dentures and partial dentures can be cleaned using a denture-cleanser, toothpaste, or a mouth rinse. Please gently brush your gums and tongue as well. Our dentists and team will demonstrate the best method to care for your individual dental prosthesis.
Will I need any further operation?

Most dental procedures require only one operation. However, dental restorations such as implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures may take multiple visits to reach completion. Following your operation, our dentists will schedule a future visit to assess the success of the procedure. We will continue to monitor your dental work as you visit our office for checkups and other treatments. If you experience damage or infection to your dental work, our dentists may need to repeat the original procedure to preserve your oral health and your smile.

If you have any questions about dental post-operative care and to schedule your appointment with our dentists in Sacramento, California, please contact us today at 916-649-0249!