Caring for Your Smile After Treatment at McKinley Dentistry

Whether you’ve had a quick filling or a complex surgical procedure, how you care for your mouth afterward is just as important as the treatment itself. At McKinley Dentistry, we provide clear, step-by-step aftercare instructions to help you heal comfortably and protect your results.

Below are general post-treatment guidelines, with tips tailored to specific procedures.

After a Tooth Extraction

Recovering from an extraction—especially wisdom tooth removal—takes patience and gentle care. Here’s how to promote safe healing:

• Keep firm pressure on the gauze for about an hour to control bleeding. Replace it if needed.
• For the first day, avoid hot foods, fizzy drinks, and using straws.
• Do not rinse your mouth or brush near the extraction site for 24 hours.
• Apply ice packs as directed to reduce swelling, and take prescribed medications as instructed.
• Stick to soft foods like yogurt, applesauce, or soup for several days.

If you experience heavy bleeding, fever, or worsening pain, contact our office immediately.

After a Dental Implant

A little swelling is normal after an implant procedure, but careful aftercare helps protect your new restoration.

• Apply ice packs off and on as instructed to minimize swelling.
• Avoid touching or brushing directly over the implant site for the first few days.
• Do not smoke, spit, or drink through a straw during early healing.
• Stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot, crunchy, or chewy.

Our team will give you personalized instructions to help ensure a successful, long-term result.

For Fillings, Crowns, and Root Canals

• Wait until any numbness has worn off before eating.
• If you have silver fillings, avoid chewing on them for 24 hours.
• Temporary crowns can loosen—if this happens, save the crown and call us.
• Mild sensitivity is normal, but if discomfort worsens, let us know.
• Always follow any prescribed medication or cleaning instructions closely.

Surgical Aftercare & Deep Cleanings

From gum surgery to bone grafting and scaling procedures, the right aftercare makes a big difference.

• Use ice packs and take any prescribed medications as directed.
• Avoid brushing directly over the surgical site for the first few days.
• Skip alcohol-based mouth rinses unless prescribed.
• Follow up for suture removal or dressing checks as scheduled.
• Stick to cool, soft foods and rest to allow proper healing.

Braces and Dentures

• Braces may cause some pressure at first—stick to soft foods and brush gently.
• New dentures require an adjustment period. Remove them nightly, clean them thoroughly, and expect speech to normalize after a few days—reading aloud can help.

When to Reach Out

Every patient heals differently. If you notice increased pain, unusual swelling, or simply have a concern, the McKinley Dentistry team is just a phone call away. We’re here to guide you through every stage of your recovery.