Grove City Family Dentistry Blog

 Post-Operative Instructions

Anesthetics

The length of time you experience numbness varies, depending on the type and amount of anesthetic you’ve received and the area that anesthetized.  While your mouth is numb, you’ll want to be careful not to bite your cheek, lip or tongue.  For this reason, it is important that you do not have any foods that require chewing while your mouth is numb.  If you have liquid foods, it is very imporant that you do not drink through a straw.  The sucking action that occurs when a straw is used may loosen the blood clot and prevent proper healing.  The numbness should subside within a few hours.  If it doesn’t, contact your dentist.

Bleeding

Your dentist may place a gauze pack on the extraction site to limit bleeding and confine the blood while clotting takes place.  This gauze pack should be left in place for 30 to 45 minutes after you leave the dentist’s office.  Do not chew on the pack.  There may be some bleeding or oozing after the pack is removed.  If so, follow this procedure.

• Fold a piece of clean gauze into a pad thick enough to bite on.  Dampen the pad with clean, warm water and place it driectly on the extraction site.
• Apply moderate pressure by closing the teeth firmly over the pad.  Maintain this pressure for about 30 minutes.  if the pad becomes soaked with blood, replace it with a clean one as necessary.
• Do not suck on the extraction site or disturb it with your tongue.
• A slight amount of blood may leak from the extraction site until a clot forms.  However, if heavy bleeding continues, call your dentist. (Remember, though, that a little bit of blood mixed with a lot of saliva can look like a lot of bleeding.)

 The Blood Clot

After an extraction, a blood clot forms in the tooth socket.  This clot is an important part of the normal healing process.  You should avoid activities that might disturb the clot.  Here’s how to protect it:

• Do not smoke, or rinse your mouth vigorously, or drink through a straw for 24 hours.  These activities create suction in the mouth, which could dislodge the clot and delay healing.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages or mouthwash containing alcohol for 24 hours.
• Do not clean the teeth next to the healing tooth socket for the rest of the day.  You should, however, brush and floss your other teeth thoroughly.  Gently rinse your mouth afterward.
• Limit strenuous activity for 24 hours after the extraction.  This will reduce bleeding and help the blood clot to form.
• Sometimes the blood clot does not form in the first day or two after the extraction, or it forms but breaks down for some reason.  The result is called osteitis or dry socket.  This can be very painful and should be reported to your dentist.  A dressing may be placed in the socket to protect it until the socket heals and to reduce any pain.

Medication

If your dentist has prescribed medication to control pain and prevent infection, use it only as directed.  If the pain medication prescribed does not seem to work for you, do not increase the number of doses you take or decrease the interval between doses.  Call your dentist if you have any difficulties with medication.

Swelling and Pain

After a tooth is removed, you may have some discomfort and notice some swelling.  You can help reduce swelling and pain by applying cold compresses to your face as directed by your dentist.  An ice bag or cold, moist cloth can be used periodically.  Your dentist may give you specific instructions on how long and how often to use a cold compress.  Your dentist may also give you a cold pack to use on your way home from the office.  If youi have prolonged or severe pain, swelling, bleeding, fever, nausea or vomiting, call your dentist immediately.  If you cannot reach your dentist, go to a hospital emergency room.

Diet

After the extraction, drink lots of liquids and eat soft, nutritious foods.  Avoid hot liquids and alcoholic beverages.  Do not use a straw.  Begin eating solid foods the next day or as soon as you can chew comfortably.  For the first few days, try to chew food on the opposite side of the extraction site.  When it feels comfortable, you could resume chewing on both sides of your mouth.

Cleaning Your Mouth

Do not clean the teeth next to the healing tooth socket for the rest of the day.  You should, however, brush and floss your other teeth thoroughly, and begin cleaning the teeth next to the healing tooth socket the next day.  The tongue should also be brushed.  This will help eliminate the bad breath and unpleasant taste that are common after an extraction.

The day after the extraction, gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water (half a teaspoon salt in an 8 oz. glass of warm water) after meals to keep food particles out of the extraction site.  But remember not to rinse your mouth vigorously, as this may dislodge the blood clot.  If you have hypertension, discuss with your dentist whether you should rinse with salt water.  Avoid using mouthrinse or mouthwash during this early healing period unless your dentist advises you to do so.

When choosing oral hygiene products, look for those that carry the American Dental Assoctiation’s Seal of Acceptance-a sign that a product has met ADA criteria for safety and effectiveness.

Follow-Up

If you have sutures that require removal, your dentist will instruct you when to return to the office.

A Few Simple Guidelines

Tooth Extraction is a surgical procedure.  It is natural that changes will occur in your mouth afterward.  Your dentist may give you instructions to follow after the extraction, and it’s important to talk to your dentist if you have any questions or problems.  Here are some general guidelines to help promote healing, prevent compications, and make you more comfortable.

If you have visited our office, there is a chance you have seen this little guy! He’s getting so big, here are some pictures from over the past couple years.

The staff of Grove City Family Dentistry would like to thank our Dentists and valued patients for a wonderful year.  We wish you and your families a safe and blessed holiday!

What is Zoom! tooth whitening?
Zoom! is a bleaching process that lightens discoloration of enamel and dentin. You may have seen the Zoom! process used on ABC’s Extreme Makeover.

How long does Zoom! Chairside Whitening take?
The complete procedure takes less than an hour. The procedure begins with a preparation period followed as little as by 45 minutes of bleaching. (A cleaning is recommended prior to the actual Zoom! whitening session.)

How does the Zoom! In-office system work?
The Zoom! light activated whitening gel’s active ingredient is Hydrogen Peroxide. As the Hydrogen Peroxide is broken down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin, bleaching colored substances while the structure of the tooth is unchanged. The Zoom! light aids in activating the hydrogen peroxide and helps it penetrate the surface of the tooth. A study has shown that use of the Zoom! lamp increases the effectiveness of the Zoom! gel by 26% or more, giving an average improvement of up to eight shades.

What will I experience during the Zoom! In-Office Procedure?
During the procedure, patients may comfortably watch television or listen to music. Individuals with a strong gag reflex or anxiety may have difficulty undergoing the entire procedure.

How long do the results last?
By following some simple post whitening care instructions, your teeth will always be lighter than they were before. To keep your teeth looking their best, we recommend flossing, brushing twice daily, and occasional touch-ups with Zoom! Weekender or Nite White gel. These are professional formula products designed specifically to keep your teeth their brightest. They are available only through your dental professional.

Are there any side effects?
Sensitivity during the treatment may occur with some patients. The Zoom! light generates minimal heat which is the usual source of discomfort. On rare occasions, minor tingling sensations are experienced immediately after the procedure, but always dissipate. You can also ask your dentist to supply you with anti-sensitivity toothpaste for use prior to treatment.

What causes tooth discoloration?
There are many causes. The most common include aging and consumption of staining substances such as coffee, tea, colas, tobacco, red wine, etc. During tooth formation, consumption of tetracycline, certain antibiotics or excessive fluoride may also cause tooth discoloration.

Do many people whiten their teeth?
More people than you might imagine. A bright sparkling smile can make a big difference for everyone. The Zoom! Chairside Whitening System makes it easier and faster than ever before.

Who may benefit from tooth whitening?
Almost anyone. However, treatment may not be as effective for some as it is for others. Your dental professional can determine if you are a viable candidate for this procedure through a thorough oral exam, including a shade assessment.

Is whitening safe?
Yes. Extensive research and clinical studies indicate that whitening teeth under the supervision of a dentist is safe. In fact, many dentists consider whitening the safest cosmetic dental procedure available. As with any tooth whitening product, Zoom! is not recommended for children under 13 years of age and pregnant or lactating women.

WOW!  Due to an overwhelming response, we have decided to host the food drive for the whole month of December.  We have almost reached our goal of a truck load!  A big thank you goes out to everyone who has been bringing in food items.  Your donations mean so much to families in need.  We will be posting a picture of the final collection for all to see at the end of our drive. 

Thanks again!

What is a sealant?
A dental sealant is a thin plastic film painted on the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars (the teeth directly in front of the molars). Sealants have been shown to be highly effective in the prevention of cavities. They were developed through dental research in the 1950s and first became available commercially in the early 1970s. The first sealant was accepted by the American Dental Association Council on Dental Therapeutics in 1972.

How effective are sealants?
Scientific studies have proven that properly applied sealants are 100 percent effective in protecting the tooth surfaces from caries. Because sealants act as a physical barrier to decay, protection is determined by the sealants’ ability to adhere to the tooth. As long as the sealant remains intact, small food particles and bacteria that cause cavities cannot penetrate through or around a sealant. In fact, research has shown that sealants actually stop cavities when placed on top of a slightly decayed tooth by sealing off the supply of nutrients to the bacteria that causes a cavity.

Sealant protection is reduced or lost when part or all of the bond between the tooth and sealant is broken. However, clinical studies have shown that teeth that have lost sealants are no more susceptible to tooth decay than teeth that were never sealed.

How are sealants applied?
Sealant application involves cleaning the surface of the tooth and rinsing the surface to remove all traces of the cleaning agent. An etching solution or gel is applied to the enamel surface of the tooth, including the pits and grooves. After 15 seconds, the solution is thoroughly rinsed away with water. After the site is dried, the sealant material is applied and allowed to harden by using a special curing light. Other sealants are applied and allowed to harden much the same way nail polish is applied to fingernails.

Sealant treatment is painless and could take anywhere from five to 45 minutes to apply, depending on how many teeth need to be sealed. Sealants must be applied properly for good retention.

How long will a sealant last?
Sealants should last five years, but can last as long as 10 years. One study reported that seven years after application, an impressive 49 percent of treated teeth were still completely covered. Sealants should not be considered permanent. Regular dental check-ups are necessary to monitor the sealants’ bond to the tooth.

Who should receive sealant treatment?
Children, because they have newly erupted, permanent teeth, receive the greatest benefit from sealants. The chewing surfaces of a child’s teeth are most susceptible to cavities and the least benefitted by fluoride. Surveys show that approximately two-thirds of all cavities occur in the narrow pits and grooves of a child’s newly erupted teeth because food particles and bacteria cannot be cleaned out.

Other patients also can benefit from sealant placement, such as those who have existing pits and grooves susceptible to decay. Research has shown that almost everybody has a 95 percent chance of eventually experiencing cavities in the pits and grooves of their teeth.

There are hundreds of people in our area that are struggling to feed their families this holiday season.  The Dentists and staff of Grove City Family Dentistry have partnered with Mid Ohio food bank to host a food drive.

We have a goal of collecting a truck load of food items and are asking our patients and community to help us reach our goal!  You can stop by during working hours.

(Monday-Thursday 8-8 & Friday 8-3)

Items needed:

Bisquick mixes
Oatmeal
Baking mixes
Corn meal
Dry beans
Pasta
Rice
Pancake and bread mixes
Canned Chili
Canned stew
Canned fish
Canned meat
Condensed or chunky soups
Canned vegetables
Canned fruits
Canned juices
Instant potatoes
Peanut Butter
Macaroni and cheese
canned soup
Cereal grain bars
Applesauce packs
Pudding packs
Cocoa mixes
Lemonade mix
Flavored mixes for milk
Cracker combos
Dry packed meat products
Popcorn
Oatmeal cookies
Graham crackers

Your help is greatly appreciated!

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 Dr. Oiler’s top 3 picks

1. The Grinch

2. Christmas Vacation

3. A Christmas Story

 Dr. Zimmerman’s top 3 picks

1. A Christmas Story

2. Rudolph

3. White Christmas

 

  Dr. Mitchell’s top 3 picks

1. A Christmas Story

2. It’s A Wonderful Life

3. Elf

 Dr. Gardner’s top 3 picks

1. Christmas Vacation

2. It’s A Wonderful Life

3. Scrooge

  Dr. Jeans’s top 3 picks

1. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer

2. Home Alone

3. Elf

During the Holidays, it is always good to spend time with close friends and family.  We have found some fun activities to share with your loved ones to help build memories for years to come!

Holiday Fantasy of Lights at Alum Creek       Nov. 21-Dec. 30

Bring the family out to enjoy a two-mile light extravaganza where visitors can visit with Santa at the marina boat house.  Cost is $10 per car Mon-Thurs and $15 Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 18th.  After Dec. 18th, cost is $15 for every day of the week.  Hours are 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sunday-Thursday, and 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.  Proceeds will benefit Recreation Unlimited.

Columbus Symphony

Ronald J. Jenkins will be conducting the Columbus Symphony Dec. 5, 6 & 7 at the Ohio Theatre.  Featuring Columbus Spymphony Chorus, Columbus Children’s Choir, Balletmet, and Santha!  Bring your kids and camera to meet Santa after the Sunday performance.  Tickets start at $18.  Visit www.columbussymphony.com for more information. 

 Holiday Classic Film Series

The Arena Grand Theater, in conjunction with WNCI and Suburban News Publications, will sponsor the 2nd Annual Family Holiday Classic Film Series Saturday, Nov. 29th through Dec. 20th at the Arena Grand Theater downtown.

Movie times:

December 6th- White Christmas

December 13th- Deck the Halls

December 20th- Polar Express

All movies start at 10 a.m. Admission is $2 per person or $10 per family.  Proceeds benefit Children’s Hunger Alliance.

Winterfair Columbus

Dec. 4-7  Enjoy fine arts and crafts at the Ohio Expo Center located at the Ohio State Fairgrounds.  Admission is $7 for adults and children 12 & under are free.

T’was the Night Before Christmas: An Evening with Clement Moore

Dec. 4, 11 & 18  7 p.m. and 8 p.m.  The solo performance shocases the 19th-century author talking about his life and his thoughts on his famous poem.  Since its publication in 1823, it has become perhaps the most well known Christmas poem in America.  The author is played by Ronald St. Pierre o Westerville.  Admission to the Ohio Historical is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $4 for students.  As always, free for for Ohio Historical Society members and children 5 years of age and under.   Parking is $4 and free for members.  For more information, visit www.ohiohistory.org or call 614.297.2300