Clovis Orthodontist
We understand that trying to find a nearby orthodontist you can trust is difficult, that is why we make it easy for you to work with us.
(559) 325-8000
240 W Shaw Ave, Suite 110, Clovis, CA, 93612
clovisorthodontics@gmail.com
(559) 325-8000
Post-Surgical Orthodontic Care
Depending on how well you take care of your oral health; depends on how often you need to visit your family dentist. Your dentists goal is to catch any oral health issues early, to ensure they can find a solution sooner rather than later. Depending on your oral health issue, your family dentist may involve our office in your treatment plan. However, for those patients who have experienced oral surgery, an orthodontic extraction, or have recently undergone other reconstructive procedures, there are recommendations you should follow.
List of Services
-
Diet
If you are enjoying a sugary or starchy snack during the day, it is more than likely that your teeth and gums are being exposed to decay-causing elements. If you do consume these things, we recommend brushing and flossing your teeth after they are consumed or try and stay away from them altogether. In most cases, a soft diet is recommended for the first 48-hours after your procedure and to chew on the other side of your mouth and avoid hard and sticky foods. Also avoid foods that break into small pieces when you chew them, such as raw vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and popcorn.
It is important to note that there may be sensitivity to hot and/or cold, pressure, and swelling after an orthodontic procedure. In most cases, any discomfort will subside dramatically within the first 24-48-hours.
-
Pain Relief
After a major procedure, most discomfort can be managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever. If more pain control is necessary, please contact our practice. Pain medications work best when taken before the pain reaches its worst. Pain medications should be taken on a schedule and never more than the recommended dose. An acute or persistent toothache is common with most orthodontic treatment, however, another cause of toothache is decay. Decay is a bacterial infection that can spread through many parts of the tooth, and even into the gum tissue. Sometimes, a toothache indicates that you may need root canal treatment — a procedure that not only relieves the discomfort but can also keep your tooth from needing to be extracted. Other times, the discomfort may be caused by a loose filling or by a crack. The only way to know for sure what is causing your toothache is to make an appointment with your family dentist.
Avoid using straws, spitting, vigorous swishing of fluids, and smoking, as all these activities can interfere with the healing process.
-
Proper Care
When brushing, we recommend using a soft-bristle toothbrush as it is gentler on your teeth, gums, and brackets. As for toothpaste, this depends on your oral health as there are different toothpaste recommendations depending on your individual needs. If you are curious about which toothbrush or toothpaste is best for you, please call our practice or speak with your family dentist.
Your gums may be tender around the area of an orthodontic extraction, or other major dental procedure. Keeping your gums clean with gentle flossing, brushing, and rinsing with warm saltwater (1/2 tsp of regular table salt in 8oz of warm water) will help your gums recover more quickly.