How to Deal with Pain After A Cosmetic Dentistry Procedure

Whether you got veneers or have started using Invisalign, the pain can be a little uncomfortable after cosmetic dentistry. This is normal, but there are things you can do to make the recovery process more comfortable.

It takes time to adjust to the feel of your new bite. When the bite is altered, or the position of the teeth is changed, it takes several days for your brain to recognize the new position of your teeth or their thickness. This can make you feel like your bite is off, but it’s because your brain hasn’t caught up yet!

Remember, the pain will subside as your body heals. It’s natural for your body to feel tender after surgery. Try these tips from our dental experts at Decardenas, MD.

Try an Over-the-Counter Pain Reliever

While this is a no-brainer, it’s always a good start!

If you’re suffering from cosmetic dentistry pain, you should first try an over-the-counter pain reliever. These medications are safe and effective at relieving mild to moderate discomfort.

You can also take ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This type of medication will help reduce swelling and inflammation in your mouth.

Rinse with Salt Water

Saltwater is a natural antiseptic and can help to relieve pain. It also helps reduce swelling and inflammation, two of the leading causes of pain after cosmetic dentistry. To rinse your mouth with salt water, mix one teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water, then swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.

Drinking Cool Liquids & Eating Soft Food

Drinking cool liquids can help reduce the pain of cosmetic dentistry procedures. The best way to do this is to use a straw to bring the liquid directly to your mouth and avoid placing pressure on your teeth or gums.

If you’re having trouble drinking with a straw, try holding the straw between your lips and taking small sips of water. This will help you get used to the sensation of drinking while in pain, making it easier for you when it comes time for your next appointment!

It’s important to eat soft foods when you’re recovering from cosmetic dentistry. That way, you can avoid chewing on hard foods and potentially damaging your gums.

The best thing to do is to eat foods that are easy to chew, like mashed potatoes or soup. If you want something more substantial, try eating pasta with sauce or rice with chicken broth.

Ice

Ice is a great way to reduce the pain and swelling that comes with cosmetic dentistry procedures. It’s also a good idea to keep an ice pack in the freezer, so you can use it whenever you need it.

Ice will help numb your gums and reduce inflammation, making the pain feel better. The cold temperature also slows down blood flow, which helps prevent bleeding and keeps your gums from getting too swollen.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene is the best way to deal with cosmetic dentistry pain.

When going through cosmetic dentistry, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene. That means that you should brush and floss regularly and often. You should also use mouthwash after eating or drinking anything irritating your mouth.

You should also talk to your dentist about what types of pain meds they recommend taking after a procedure like this so that they can make sure you don’t overdo it and wind up with an adverse reaction later on.

Choose Dr. Decardenas for All Your Cosmetic Dentistry Needs

Dr. Andres de Cardenas, DMD, is a highly skilled and caring dentist who has been practicing for over 20 years. He has carefully planned his office to promote a relaxing, caring environment for every visiting patient.

Knowing that the anticipation of dental care is often accompanied by fear, dread, and distress, Dr. de Cardenas strives to make each visit as comfortable as possible for his patients by providing them with a friendly staff that will guide them through every step of their treatment plan. Call today to book your appointment!