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. Our 24/7 answering service is always here: Gaithersburg (301) 740-2686 · Lexington Park (301) 737-4747.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ali Fatemi, DDS, FICOI, FAGD, MAGD.