What To Expect After a Dental Appointment

After a dental appointment – even a simple cleaning and exam – you may feel some minor discomfort or slight pain. It is not uncommon to feel uncomfortable or have a dull ache immediately after cleanings, a root canal or filling. The intensity of pain is subject to your pain tolerance, the kind of dental work that was done, and the length of the dental procedure.

General sensitivity may also be present after a dental appointment. Your teeth may feel sensitive when biting and or even feel like they are loose. This sensitivity comes from the nerve-endings near the root of each tooth where we cleaned and worked on your teeth.

Whenever possible, try to chew on the opposite side where the pain is. Or eat soft foods like soups, potatoes or pastas. Please avoid chewing gum, caramels or other sticky soft candy. This minor discomfort should go away within a few hours of leaving your appointment.

Usually, a dose of over-the-counter pain medication will alleviate any lingering discomfort or sensitivity. If your pain persists and becomes intolerable, please don’t hesitate to call us at 503-639-6900.