--- title: Your Complete Aftercare Guide at Smile Solutions canonical_url: https://directory.smilesolutions.com.au/your-complete-aftercare-guide-at-smile-solutions/ category: description: # Your Complete Aftercare Guide at Smile Solutions The quality of your treatment outcome does not only depend on what happens in the dental chair - it also depends on how you care for your results at... geography: city: state: country: metadata: phone: email: website: publishedAt: --- # Your Complete Aftercare Guide at Smile Solutions # Your Complete Aftercare Guide at Smile Solutions The quality of your treatment outcome does not only depend on what happens in the dental chair - it also depends on how you care for your results at home. Whether you have just received porcelain veneers, are wearing temporary veneers while your permanent restorations are being crafted, have been fitted with a nightguard, or are progressing through Invisalign treatment, the guidance in this article will help you protect your investment, maintain your comfort, and get the best possible long-term result. This is your complete aftercare reference from Smile Solutions - Australia's largest private dental practice, proudly serving more than 300,000 patients since 1993. If you have any questions or concerns at any time, please call us on **13 13 96**. We are here to help. --- ## Part 1: Aftercare for Porcelain Veneers Congratulations on your new veneers. Porcelain veneers are a significant investment in your smile, and with the right care, they can last for many years. The following eight guidelines will help you protect your veneers and keep your smile looking its best. ### 1. Managing Post-Insertion Sensitivity It is normal to experience some tooth sensitivity after your veneer insertion appointment. This typically affects one or more of the prepared teeth and may be triggered by temperature (hot or cold foods and drinks) or by touch. The most effective way to manage this is with regular application of sensitive toothpaste. Apply it to the affected teeth with your fingertip and leave it in place for a few minutes before rinsing. Sensitivity generally resolves within a few weeks as the teeth settle. If sensitivity is severe or persists beyond four weeks, please contact us for a review. ### 2. Use an Electric Toothbrush with a Pressure Sensor For cleaning your veneers, an electric toothbrush is strongly preferred over a manual brush. Electric brushes provide more consistent, effective cleaning with less physical effort - and critically, a model with a built-in pressure sensor will alert you when you are brushing too hard. Excessive brushing pressure is a leading cause of gum recession, which can affect the appearance and longevity of your veneers over time. Brush twice daily, using gentle, circular motions. ### 3. Floss Daily Around Your Veneers Healthy gums are essential to the long-term success of your veneers. Floss gently every day around each veneer to remove plaque from the gumline. This prevents gum disease from developing around the margins of your veneers, which could affect both their appearance and their seal to the tooth underneath. If you find traditional floss difficult to use around your veneers, your hygienist can advise on alternative options such as super floss or interdental brushes. ### 4. Avoid Very Hard Foods Porcelain is strong, but it can fracture under extreme force. Avoid habitually biting into very hard foods such as: - Nuts - Hard lollies or toffees - Crusty baguettes or bread rolls - Ice - Anything with bones This does not mean you cannot enjoy a varied diet. It means being mindful of biting habits - particularly using your front veneers as levers against hard objects. Cut foods into smaller pieces where needed. ### 5. Wear a Nightguard Every Night If you grind or clench your teeth - even mildly, even unconsciously during sleep - this habit poses a significant risk to your veneers. Grinding and clenching (bruxism) generates far greater force than ordinary chewing, and over time it can cause veneers to chip, crack, or debond. A custom-fitted nightguard, worn every night, distributes these forces evenly and protects both your veneers and your natural teeth. If you do not already have one, please ask your dentist or treatment coordinator - we will arrange to have one made. Consider your nightguard as essential protective equipment for your smile investment. Patients who wear their nightguard consistently enjoy significantly longer veneer lifespans. ### 6. Top Up with Whitening Periodically Your porcelain veneers are fabricated to a specific shade of white and will maintain that colour over time. However, your natural teeth - those not covered by veneers - will continue to be subject to staining from coffee, tea, red wine, and other dietary factors. To keep your natural teeth matching the colour of your veneers, we recommend periodic whitening - either at-home whitening trays or in-chair whitening at Smile Solutions. Your dentist can advise on the most appropriate option and frequency for your individual situation. ### 7. Wear a Mouthguard During Contact Sports Porcelain veneers can be damaged by sporting impacts. If you participate in any contact sport - including team sports, martial arts, or any activity with a risk of collision - please wear a well-fitted, custom sports mouthguard. A custom mouthguard from Smile Solutions provides significantly better protection than an over-the-counter boil-and-bite alternative. Please ask your dentist or treatment coordinator to arrange this if you do not already have one. ### 8. Attend Six-Monthly Check-Ups and Cleans Regular professional care is essential to the long-term health and appearance of your veneers. At your six-monthly appointments, your dentist will check the condition of each veneer, assess the gum health around the margins, and check your bite. Your hygienist will professionally clean the veneers and surrounding teeth, removing any calculus build-up that home brushing alone cannot address. This also provides an opportunity to check whether your nightguard is still fitting correctly, particularly if you have had any other dental work in the intervening period. --- ## Part 2: Caring for Temporary Veneers If you are currently wearing temporary veneers while your permanent porcelain restorations are being crafted in our Smile Lab, this section is important reading. Temporary veneers are functional but less durable than the final restorations, and proper care during this phase will prevent unnecessary complications. ### Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods Temporary veneers are more susceptible to breakage and debonding than permanent veneers. During this phase, avoid: - Hard foods such as nuts, raw vegetables, crusty bread, ice, and hard candy - Sticky foods such as chewing gum, caramel, toffee, and other adhesive foods - Foods containing bones - Anything that requires significant biting force Cut foods into smaller pieces before eating where possible. ### Be Cautious with Temperature Temporary veneers can be more sensitive to temperature extremes than permanent porcelain. Very hot or very cold foods and drinks (hot coffee, ice cream, iced beverages) may cause discomfort. This sensitivity should resolve once your permanent veneers are placed. ### Maintain Oral Hygiene - With a Soft Manual Toothbrush Do not neglect your oral hygiene during the temporary phase. However, switch to a soft-bristled manual toothbrush for this period rather than an electric brush. Use gentle strokes to avoid loosening the temporary veneers. For flossing, use super floss or Piksters around your temporary veneers. Avoid snapping floss down hard against the gumline, as this can dislodge temporary restorations. If prescribed, use any mouthwash as directed. ### Avoid Staining Agents Temporary veneers are made from a resin material that is more porous and stain-absorbent than the porcelain in your permanent veneers. During this phase, minimise consumption of: - Coffee and tea - Red wine - Curries and other strongly pigmented foods - Tobacco These will not affect your permanent porcelain veneers - but staining during the temporary phase can make the period feel less comfortable aesthetically. ### Do Not Use Your Teeth as Tools Avoid opening packages with your teeth, biting nails, or using your teeth for any purpose other than eating. This applies at all times, but is especially important during the temporary veneer phase when restorations are less securely bonded. --- ## Part 3: Caring for Your Nightguard If you have been fitted with a custom nightguard at Smile Solutions, this section explains how to care for it and what to expect. Your nightguard is a precision-crafted appliance that plays an important role in protecting your teeth and dental work from the effects of grinding and clenching. ### What Your Nightguard Does When worn correctly every night, your nightguard: - Prevents wear on your natural teeth and dental restorations from grinding and clenching (bruxism) - Protects weak or restored teeth from breaking under the load of habitual jaw forces - In some cases, disrupts the grinding or clenching habit itself - Relaxes the jaw-closing muscles, reducing load on the temporomandibular joints (TMJs), which can relieve associated muscle tension, joint discomfort, and related headaches ### What to Expect When You First Start Wearing It Your nightguard may feel slightly foreign in your mouth at first - this is normal. Most patients adapt within a few nights. You may notice increased saliva production initially, which typically settles quickly. Some patients notice that it feels slightly uncomfortable to bite down on the nightguard surface. This is also normal and will resolve as you adjust. ### How to Clean Your Nightguard Do not use toothpaste or a toothbrush to clean your nightguard. Toothpaste is too abrasive for the appliance material and will scratch it over time. Instead, soak your nightguard in a dissolved effervescent oral appliance cleanser. Common brands include Polident, Retainer-Brite, and Steradent. Follow the product instructions for soaking time and frequency. Rinse thoroughly before wearing. ### Storing Your Nightguard Always store your nightguard in its protective case when not in use. This is particularly important if you have pets inside your home - pets are attracted to the smell of oral appliances and can cause serious damage. Be careful when placing or removing your nightguard - dropping it on a hard tiled floor can cause cracks or distortion. ### Bring Your Nightguard to Every Dental Appointment Please bring your nightguard to every Smile Solutions appointment. Your clinician will check the fit and condition, particularly after any new dental work that may affect your bite. A poorly fitting nightguard can cause problems, so regular checking is important. **If you experience discomfort in your teeth, muscles, or jaw joints that you believe is related to wearing your nightguard, stop wearing it and contact us to discuss with your clinician.** --- ## Part 4: Your Complete Invisalign Aftercare Guide ### Getting Started with Your Aligners Congratulations on beginning your Invisalign treatment. Each aligner is marked with its number and a "U" for upper or "L" for lower - so there is no confusion about which is which. To insert an aligner, gently push it over your front teeth, then use equal fingertip pressure on the biting surfaces of your left and right molars (back teeth) until it clicks into place. Do not bite your aligners into position - this can damage them. ### Using Aligner Chewies Aligner Chewies are small, soft rolls of non-toxic plastic that help seat your aligners properly. Bite on a Chewie, then move it around your mouth to ensure each section of the aligner is fully engaged. Use Chewies for 10-15 minutes per day - particularly during the first few days of each new aligner - to ensure optimal fit and results. ### Removing Your Aligners Use your fingertips, starting at the back molars on one side, and gently peel the aligner free, working around to the other side. Take extra care if you have attachments (small tooth-coloured bumps bonded to your teeth to help with specific movements). ### Storing Your Aligners When your aligners are out of your mouth, store them in their protective case immediately. Place one aligner in the case, then rotate the other 180 degrees so they interlock. Never wrap aligners in tissues or leave them in pockets - they can be easily lost or damaged. ### Wear Time - 22 Hours Per Day Minimum Your aligners must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than cold water, and cleaning your teeth. If your aligners are worn for less than 22 hours per day, your treatment will take longer. Every hour matters. ### Eating and Drinking with Aligners Always remove your aligners before eating and before drinking anything other than plain cold water. Food and coloured beverages can stain your aligners and promote decay under them. Before reinserting your aligners after a meal or snack, ideally brush and floss your teeth. This removes food and sugars that could otherwise be trapped between the aligner and your tooth surface. ### Cleaning Your Aligners Clean your aligners before each insertion using soapy cold water and a soft toothbrush (without toothpaste). You can also soak them in cool water and white vinegar to remove stains, or use dedicated cleaning tablets such as Aligner Brite - dissolve half a tablet in water, soak until clear, then rinse thoroughly. Never use warm or hot water - it can distort the aligner material. Do not use denture cleaners or regular mouthwash on your aligners. ### Understanding Attachments and Elastics Some treatment plans require attachments - small tooth-coloured bumps bonded to specific teeth to provide the aligner with a grip point for complex movements. Attachments are fully covered by your aligner when it is in place and are not visible. Some cases also require elastics (rubber bands) worn between upper and lower aligners to correct bite relationships. If prescribed, wearing your elastics exactly as directed is critical to your treatment outcome. ### Discomfort During Treatment Most patients experience minor, temporary discomfort for the first few days of each new aligner stage. This pressure sensation is normal - it is the aligners working. It typically resolves within 48-72 hours. Over-the-counter pain relief can help if needed. ### Speech Changes Some patients notice a slight lisp during the first few days of treatment as the tongue adjusts to the presence of aligners. This resolves quickly for most patients. Practising speaking out loud can help accelerate adaptation. ### Changing Your Aligners The frequency of aligner changes depends on your individual treatment plan. It may be every five days, weekly, or fortnightly - your Invisalign provider will specify the correct schedule for you. ### Mouthguards During Invisalign Treatment It is essential to protect your teeth during sport, including while undergoing Invisalign treatment. At Smile Solutions, we fabricate high-quality dual-laminated custom mouthguards at a heavily discounted rate for Invisalign patients throughout their active treatment and for twelve months afterward. Let us know when your mouthguard feels tight - we will arrange a replacement. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: What should I do if a veneer chips or comes off?** A: Contact us on 13 13 96 as soon as possible. Do not attempt to reattach a veneer with over-the-counter adhesive. Keep the veneer safe and bring it with you to your appointment. **Q: My nightguard feels loose since I had a crown - what should I do?** A: New dental work can change the fit of your nightguard. Bring your nightguard to your next appointment and we will assess whether it needs adjustment or replacement. **Q: Can I drink coffee with my Invisalign aligners in?** A: No. Only plain cold water should be consumed with aligners in place. Coffee and tea will stain the aligners and promote tooth decay underneath them. **Q: How often should I replace my Invisalign case?** A: Replace your case if it becomes cracked, discoloured, or difficult to close properly. Ask us about obtaining a replacement case at your next appointment. **Q: I have sensitivity after veneer insertion - when should I be concerned?** A: Mild to moderate sensitivity that gradually improves over 2-4 weeks is normal. If sensitivity is severe, worsening, or persists beyond four weeks, please contact us for a review. **Q: Can I whiten my teeth while wearing Invisalign?** A: In some cases, whitening can be incorporated into Invisalign treatment. Speak to your provider about the best approach for your situation. ## Contact Us For any questions about your aftercare, or if something does not feel right, please contact us promptly. We would always rather hear from you early than have a small concern become a larger problem. Call **13 13 96** | Visit Level 1, 220 Collins Street, Manchester Unity Building, Melbourne VIC 3000 Monday to Friday 8:00am - 6:00pm | Saturday 8:00am - 1:30pm **smilesolutions.com.au** --- ## Part 5: Root Canal Aftercare Root canal treatment is a routine procedure, but proper aftercare ensures you heal comfortably and the treated tooth serves you well for many years. ### What to Expect After Root Canal Treatment Some soreness and mild discomfort in the treated area is completely normal for two to five days following root canal treatment. The injection site may be tender, and your tooth may feel slightly different to bite on as the ligament around the root settles. ### Pain Management After Root Canal Treatment Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient for post-treatment discomfort: - **Ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food):** Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory and is generally the most effective choice for post-endodontic discomfort. - **Paracetamol (500-1000mg every 4-6 hours):** Can be taken alternately with ibuprofen for stronger combined relief. - **Avoid aspirin** as it can increase bleeding risk. If antibiotics have been prescribed, complete the full course even if symptoms improve quickly. ### What to Avoid - Chewing on the treated tooth until it is permanently restored (crown or filling) - Very hot or cold foods if sensitivity is present - Hard, crunchy foods on the treated side ### When to Call Us Call Smile Solutions on **13 13 96** if you experience: severe pain not controlled by medication, visible swelling of the face or jaw, difficulty swallowing or breathing, fever, or the temporary filling falling out entirely. --- ## Part 6: Oral Surgery and Tooth Extraction Aftercare Whether you have had a simple extraction or a more complex surgical procedure, the following guidance will help ensure a smooth recovery. ### Immediately After Surgery **Gauze:** Bite firmly on the gauze placed over the surgical site for 30-45 minutes. Some oozing for up to 24 hours is normal. **Ice packs:** Apply for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during the first 24 hours to minimise swelling. **Numbness:** The area will remain numb for 2-4 hours. Avoid hot food and drinks and be careful not to bite your cheek or lip during this period. ### Swelling and Bruising Swelling typically peaks at 48-72 hours and gradually subsides over 3-5 days. Keep your head elevated, especially when sleeping, for the first 2-3 nights. Bruising may extend to the neck and is normal. ### Pain Management **Ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food)** is the first choice. Paracetamol can be alternated for additional relief. Do not take aspirin. ### Oral Hygiene Do not rinse, spit or use a straw for the first 24 hours. From day 2, rinse gently with warm salt water 2-3 times daily. Continue brushing other teeth, avoiding the surgical site. ### Diet Soft foods only for the first 24-48 hours. Avoid hot foods until numbness resolves. No alcohol for at least 5 days. Gradually reintroduce normal foods from day 3 as comfort allows. ### Dry Socket Warning Dry socket (severe, throbbing pain 2-4 days after extraction) occurs when the blood clot is dislodged. Do not use straws or smoke. If you suspect dry socket, call **13 13 96** urgently. ### Warning Signs Contact Smile Solutions immediately if you experience: increasing pain after day 3, spreading swelling, fever above 38°C, pus or discharge, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. --- ## Part 7: Teeth Whitening Aftercare Whether you have had in-chair Zoom whitening or are using Day White at-home trays, the following guidance will help protect your result and manage any sensitivity. ### After Zoom In-Chair Whitening **The 24-Hour White Diet:** Avoid all deeply coloured foods and drinks for at least 24 hours (ideally 48 hours) after whitening, as the enamel pores are temporarily open and more susceptible to staining. Avoid tea, coffee, red wine, berries, tomato sauces, curries, dark soft drinks and tobacco. Safe options: water, white wine, clear juices, milk, white bread, rice, chicken, fish, cheese, bananas, apples. **Sensitivity:** Some sharp, shooting sensitivity to cold is normal for 24-48 hours. Use sensitivity toothpaste applied directly to the teeth, take ibuprofen or paracetamol if needed, and avoid very cold foods and drinks. **Gum Comfort:** Vitamin E oil or gel applied to the gumline can soothe any gum irritation. This is part of our standard post-treatment care. **Colour Settling:** Do not judge your final result immediately. The true shade settles over 1-2 weeks as enamel rehydrates. **Result Longevity:** Results typically last 6-12 months. Coffee, red wine and smoking are the biggest re-staining factors. Six-monthly professional cleans help maintain brightness. ### At-Home Day White Whitening **Using your trays:** Place a small pea-sized dot of gel into each tooth space. Less is more. Wear for the directed time only (typically 30-60 minutes). Brush before inserting trays for maximum effect. **Storage:** Keep gel in a cool, dark place or the refrigerator. Never store in a hot car or direct sunlight. **Do not:** Eat, drink (except water) or smoke while wearing trays. Do not use toothpaste inside the trays. **Amalgam note:** Whitening gel can cause temporary surface oxidation on amalgam fillings, appearing as slight darkening at margins. This is a surface effect only and resolves. **Gum sensitivity:** If gum irritation occurs, reduce the amount of gel and/or the wear time per session, and allow 1-2 rest days before resuming. **Touch-up schedule:** Every 6-12 months for regular coffee, tea or wine drinkers; every 12-18 months for others. Your trays last for years; only replacement gel is needed for ongoing touch-ups.