# Aftercare Instructions

> Fatemi Family Dentistry · https://fatemifamilydentistry.com/aftercare-instructions-form/
> Updated 2026-08-31
> Family, Implant & Sedation Dentistry — Gaithersburg & Lexington Park, MD

Patient Care

# Aftercare Instructions

Simple steps to heal comfortably after your treatment.

## Caring for your smile after treatment

A little care in the first 24–48 hours helps you heal comfortably. General guidance follows — your specific instructions from Dr. Fatemi always take priority.

### The first few hours

- If you were numbed, avoid chewing until sensation returns so you don’t bite your cheek or tongue.
- For bleeding after an extraction, bite gently on gauze for 30–45 minutes.
- Ease any soreness with a cold compress on the cheek, 15 minutes on and 15 off.

### The first day or two

- Choose soft, lukewarm foods; skip very hot, crunchy, or sticky items.
- Don’t smoke or use straws after an extraction — suction can slow healing.
- Keep the area clean; resume gentle brushing and any rinse your dentist recommends.

### Call us if…

You have heavy bleeding, swelling that worsens after three days, a fever, or pain that isn’t easing. Leave us a message and Dr. Fatemi will get back to you as soon as he can — but if it cannot wait, go to the nearest emergency room. Gaithersburg [(301) 740-2686](tel:+13017402686) · Lexington Park [(301) 737-4747](tel:+13017374747).

*Medically reviewed by Dr. Ali Fatemi, DDS, MaCSD, FICOI, FAGD, MAGD.*

## Practice locations

- **Gaithersburg** — 604 S Frederick Ave #209, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 · (301) 740-2686
- **Lexington Park** — 22684 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, MD 20653 · (301) 737-4747