Wisdom tooth removal is a common dental procedure that millions of people undergo each year. Although the procedure itself is relatively straightforward, the recovery process can be lengthy and challenging if proper aftercare steps are not followed. At Capital Dental in Lincoln, NE, we recommend following the aftercare tips listed below to help you heal comfortably and quickly after your wisdom tooth removal procedure.

Rest and Take It Easy

It’s essential to rest and avoid any strenuous activities after your procedure for at least the first 24-48 hours. Resting allows your body to recover more quickly. Physical exertion can also cause the blood clot that forms over the surgical site to dislodge, which can lead to dry socket.

Apply Ice Packs

After wisdom tooth removal, swelling is common and applying ice packs can help reduce inflammation. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and apply it to your cheek for 10 -15 minute intervals. Do not place the ice pack directly onto your skin. Repeat this every few hours for the first few hours after surgery or as needed.

Use Gauze to Control Bleeding

It is normal to experience bleeding after wisdom tooth removal. Bite down gently on a piece of gauze for 30-45 minutes to control bleeding. If the bleeding persists, contact us immediately.

Take Prescribed Medications

You may likely be prescribed pain relievers and/or antibiotics after your surgery. Take these medications as prescribed, and do not exceed the recommended dosage. Pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort, while antibiotics can help prevent infection.

Follow a Soft Foods Diet

After your wisdom tooth extraction, stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods that do not require excessive chewing. Foods like smoothies, soup, mashed potatoes, yogurt, and applesauce are ideal. Avoid hot, spicy, or crunchy foods that can irritate the surgical site and cause pain.

Keep Your Mouth Clean

While you should avoid brushing the surgical site, it’s essential to keep your mouth clean after your wisdom tooth extraction. Rinse your mouth gently with warm saltwater several times a day to help prevent infection and promote healing.

Proper aftercare is critical for a smooth and speedy recovery after wisdom tooth removal. Following these essential aftercare tips can help ensure that you heal comfortably and successfully after your surgery. If you have any concerns or questions during the recovery process, be sure to contact us.

Learn More About Capital Dental Dental More On Wisdom Teeth Removal

Dental Veneers in Lincoln, NE

If you’re considering getting dental veneers or have had them in the past, it’s important to know how long they will last. Depending on the type of veneers you receive will play a part in how long your dental veneers will last. Proper care of your veneers will help ensure you get the most out of them. 

Taking Care of Your Dental Veneers

Once your dental veneer procedure is done, your job is not over. Patients will need to follow proper oral health guidelines to make sure their dental veneers stay in good condition. If you want your dental veneers to last as long as possible, use the following list to stay on top of your oral health: 

Daily Brushing + Flossing

You should already be brushing your teeth twice a day, but it’s always nice to have a reminder. Brushing your teeth should take around two minutes to ensure you are removing the plaque on your teeth. Patients should also be flossing their teeth once a day.

Limit Sweets

Limiting the number of sweets you consume is a good idea if you have dental veneers. You don’t have to completely stop eating sweets, but it’s important to be aware of how much you are consuming so you can be mindful of your oral health. 

Regular Dental Checkups

Visiting our Lincoln, NE office every 6 months is vital for making your veneers last as long as possible. During your visit, we will professionally clean your teeth to make sure they are free of any plaque and debris. 

Composite vs Porcelain 

The lifespan of your dental veneers depends on the type of dental veneers you received. Porcelain veneers can last anywhere from 10 to 12 years with the proper care. However, composite veneers usually only last between 4 and 8 years. 

Some dental veneers can last up to 20 years if you take great care of them. Your dentist will know when the right time to replace your dental veneers is, so always ask your dentist if you have any questions about the timeline. 

Know When It’s Time To Replace Them

Replacing your dental veneers is similar to the process of first getting them on. Your dentist will start by filing away and refining the bonding agent. Then, they will retake a mold of your teeth to ensure your new veneers fit just as well as your previous set. They will then create your new dental veneers and bond them back on your teeth. 

Dental veneers, with the proper care, can last many years. You should always follow proper oral health guidelines to make sure your dental veneers last as long as possible. If you have been considering dental veneers, reach out to Capital Dental to get your questions answered. 

High-End Dentistry in Lincoln, NE

When you visit the dentist, you may notice them using certain technologies. These dental technologies can include anything from x-ray machines to CEREC machines. All of the dental technologies we use in-office helps streamline the process of visiting the dentist. 

Types of Dental Technologies

Digital X-rays

If you’ve ever visited a dentist before, you most likely have gotten x-rays taken. Digital x-rays are standard practice at most dental offices. These digital x-rays save time and are safe for any patient. 

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

CBCT scanning allows our team to create images of your teeth, face and neck with just one scan. These images are high-quality and help us gather detailed information to best diagnose every patient. The CBCT machine rotates once around your head while you stand or sit. It is a quick, simple and painless process! 

CEREC

CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic. CEREC creates a state-of-the-art way of reconstructing tooth restorations. For patients who are in need of crowns, CEREC makes it possible to walk out of the office with a new tooth in just one visit! This dental technology has revolutionized ceramic restorations so there is no waiting period preparing the restoration and receiving the final product. 

Intraoral Camera

Intraoral cameras give our team a detailed view of your mouth in pictures and videos. This dental technology is useful for putting specific problem areas on the screen so we can see in greater detail. 

What Dental Technologies are Offered at Capital Dental?

At Capital Dental, we offer dental technologies to streamline our dental process as much as possible. We use the following technologies in our practice:

• Digital X-Rays
• Intraoral Camera
• Cone Beam Computed Tomography
• iTero Digital Scanners

If you have any questions about dental technology, or what we use at our practice, please give us a call using the button below.