Home / Resources / Dentures / Post-op Instructions
For the first 24 hours your immediate denture is not to be removed from your mouth. If the
denture is removed, swelling may occur that will make it difficult or impossible to replace the
denture. Oozing of blood around the denture is normal and is not cause for concern. Your
immediate denture not only replaces your missing teeth, but it is acting to protect the surgical
site, and control swelling and bleeding. The denture needs to be in place to be effective.
Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours; however, continue to brush your remaining teeth carefully. After 24 hours, we will see you for your first follow-up. After 48 hours, you can begin gently rinsing your mouth with a lukewarm salt-water solution (1/2 teaspoon of table salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water). Rinse 3-4 times per day for 4-5 days. Take care not to strain or empty your mouth with undue force.
After extractions, do not spit, rinse, smoke, or suck on a straw. Avoid hot or carbonated beverages. All these things can dislodge blood clots that are necessary for healing and lead to dry socket.
Take all medications as prescribed. Pain level and intensity vary greatly depending on a number factors. Some pain and discomfort are expected following oral surgery procedures. Provided you have not had adverse reactions to NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) and related medication, follow the Pain Management Protocol you were given.
Swelling is common after oral surgery for up to one week with the maximum amount of swelling usually present 2-3 days after surgery. The swelling will slowly resolve over 4-7 days. Apply an ice bag to the outside of the face for 15-20 minutes, and then leave off for 15-20 minutes. Repeat for 1-3 days, and then discontinue using the ice. This will reduce discomfort, bleeding, and swelling.
Soft foods that don’t require chewing for the first few days are recommended. Avoid hard or crunchy foods. Drink plenty of water, but do not go on a liquid diet. Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24-48 hours. You may resume normal physical activity as tolerated 2-3 days after your surgery.
Download the Instructions
Do not rinse your mouth for 24 hours; however, continue to brush your remaining teeth carefully. After 24 hours, we will see you for your first follow-up. After 48 hours, you can begin gently rinsing your mouth with a lukewarm salt-water solution (1/2 teaspoon of table salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water). Rinse 3-4 times per day for 4-5 days. Take care not to strain or empty your mouth with undue force.
After extractions, do not spit, rinse, smoke, or suck on a straw. Avoid hot or carbonated beverages. All these things can dislodge blood clots that are necessary for healing and lead to dry socket.
Take all medications as prescribed. Pain level and intensity vary greatly depending on a number factors. Some pain and discomfort are expected following oral surgery procedures. Provided you have not had adverse reactions to NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen, etc.) and related medication, follow the Pain Management Protocol you were given.
Swelling is common after oral surgery for up to one week with the maximum amount of swelling usually present 2-3 days after surgery. The swelling will slowly resolve over 4-7 days. Apply an ice bag to the outside of the face for 15-20 minutes, and then leave off for 15-20 minutes. Repeat for 1-3 days, and then discontinue using the ice. This will reduce discomfort, bleeding, and swelling.
Soft foods that don’t require chewing for the first few days are recommended. Avoid hard or crunchy foods. Drink plenty of water, but do not go on a liquid diet. Avoid strenuous activity for the first 24-48 hours. You may resume normal physical activity as tolerated 2-3 days after your surgery.
Download the Instructions
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Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Do I need a referral from my regular dentist to access in-house specialty services at Light Dental Studios?
No, you do not typically need a referral. You can directly schedule an appointment with our in-house specialists for consultations and treatments.
What are the advantages of choosing in-house specialty services at Light Dental Studios over external providers?
Our in-house specialties offer convenience, coordinated care, and a familiar, comfortable environment. You can receive comprehensive dental services from a trusted team under one roof.
What areas do you serve?
Our 21 locations are spread across the Puget Sound area including Auburn, Bellevue, Bonney Lake, Burien, Covington, Fircrest, Kent, Lacey, Lakewood, Lynnwood, Maple Valley, Lilly Road in Olympia, Olympia, Pacific Avenue in Parkland, Puyallup, Orthodontics in Puyallup, Renton, Ruddell Road in Lacey, 6th Avenue in Tacoma, Tacoma Mall Boulevard in Tacoma, and University Place to provide easy access to quality dental care.
Can I request a consultation or learn more about in-house specialties at Light Dental Studios online?
Yes, you can easily request a consultation or find more information about our in-house specialties on our website or by contacting our office.
In-House Specialties
What is Dental Sleep Medicine, and how can it benefit me?
Dental Sleep Medicine specializes in treating sleep-related breathing disorders like sleep apnea. It offers solutions to help you achieve better sleep, improved health, and increased quality of life.
How does Light Dental Studios' in-house denture lab enhance my denture experience?
Our in-house denture lab ensures faster turnaround times for fittings, adjustments, and repairs, providing you with well-fitting, comfortable dentures without lengthy wait times.
What orthodontic treatments and braces options are available at Light Dental Studios?
We offer a range of orthodontic treatments, including traditional braces and clear aligners, such as Invisalign, to address alignment issues and create a straight, healthy smile.
What services are provided by Light Dental Studios' Implants and Periodontics specialists?
Our periodontists offer dental implant procedures to address tooth loss and provide periodontal treatments to manage gum disease, ensuring optimal oral health.
What types of oral and maxillofacial surgeries are performed at Light Dental Studios?
Our oral surgeons perform a variety of procedures, including tooth extractions, wisdom teeth removal, corrective jaw surgeries, and more, to address dental and facial concerns.
Is Dental Sleep Medicine covered by dental insurance, and what about other in-house specialties?
Coverage varies by insurance plans. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage for each specialty.
How do I know if I have a sleep-related breathing disorder like sleep apnea?
Common symptoms include loud snoring, frequent waking during the night, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. A sleep study or consultation with our Dental Sleep Medicine specialist can provide a definitive diagnosis.
Disclaimer: Please note that the provided information above is based on general knowledge, and it's always recommended to consult with our doctors for personalized advice and recommendations regarding your or your child's specific dental needs and conditions. For any questions or concerns, please call our office.
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