Importance of Following Instructions Before and After Treatment
When patients have an upcoming dental procedure scheduled, oftentimes they are overly concerned with the procedure itself and don’t give much thought to preparing before and recovering after treatment. We have many patients who experience such nervous feelings when thinking about the procedure itself that they may miss the importance of preparation and recovery. While the procedure is extremely important and usually necessary, following our directions, especially after treatment, is imperative to ensure the results are as expected.
Before Treatment
Prior to the start of any dental treatment, it is important to be sure to inform our team of any medical changes including the change of any medications such as blood thinners. Medications can greatly affect how we perform treatments. If you require antibiotics prior to treatment, be sure to follow the directions.
After Treatment
While each person will have a different recovery and set of instructions, certain rules apply to every treatment. If you require anesthetic, it is important not to eat or drink until the numbness has subsided. You can cause accidental damage to your gums, lips, tongue and cheeks if you happen to bite in the area. It is important to be gentle with the treated area. If you are permitted to brush your teeth, be sure to use gentle motions. Over-the-counter pain medication can also be helpful to ease discomfort. If you will require a soft diet, be sure to have some favorite foods on hand.
It is imperative to follow after-care instructions. Failure to do so can cause extreme discomfort. Proper after care helps prevent unnecessary repairs, repeated procedures, and added expenses. We want to help you avoid a dental emergency and ensure that you heal properly.
If you have an upcoming treatment or you just completed a treatment and have any questions related to care, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office located in Lewisville, TX. Our team is here to help with any questions or concerns you may have. If you experience a dental emergency following treatment, be sure to call our office as soon as possible.
