Having a tooth extracted can be a daunting experience for many, and it’s not uncommon to feel a bit anxious before the procedure. Whether it’s a wisdom tooth removal, a damaged tooth extraction, or part of orthodontic preparation, the idea of losing a tooth often brings with it a host of concerns. However, understanding what happens after the extraction can make the process much less intimidating and help you prepare for a smooth recovery.

Why is it important to know what to expect? Post-extraction care is crucial for avoiding complications, ensuring proper healing, and minimizing discomfort. Many patients aren’t sure what to expect once they leave the dental office. Questions about bleeding, swelling, pain, and diet changes are common. This blog post aims to address these concerns by providing a comprehensive guide on what you can expect after a tooth extraction and how to manage your recovery effectively.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the immediate steps you should take after the extraction, common symptoms that might occur, dietary and activity recommendations, and crucial signs that may indicate complications. By the end, you’ll feel more confident about managing your post-extraction recovery and knowing when to reach out to your dentist for additional support.

Immediate Post-Extraction Care

The period immediately following a tooth extraction is critical for setting the stage for a successful recovery. Understanding what to do—and what not to do—during this time can help minimize discomfort, prevent complications, and promote healing. Below, we’ll guide you through the essential steps to take as soon as your procedure is complete.

A. What Happens Right After the Extraction

Once your tooth has been extracted, the dentist will place a piece of gauze over the extraction site to help control bleeding and encourage clot formation. This is an essential part of the healing process, as the blood clot acts as a protective layer over the underlying bone and nerve endings. It’s important to keep this gauze in place for at least 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure, biting down gently but firmly to maintain pressure.

You may still be numb from the anesthesia for several hours after leaving the dental office. During this time, be careful not to chew on your lips, cheeks, or tongue, as it’s easy to accidentally bite these areas without feeling it. It’s also a good idea to avoid consuming hot foods or drinks until the numbness completely wears off, as you won’t be able to properly gauge temperatures and could unintentionally burn yourself.

Following the dentist’s post-operative instructions is crucial during these first few hours. This includes taking prescribed medications, avoiding certain activities, and following specific guidelines on eating and drinking.

B. Managing Bleeding

Some bleeding is normal after a tooth extraction, especially in the first few hours. You might notice that the extraction site oozes slightly when you remove the initial gauze. This is typically not a cause for concern. To manage the bleeding, place a fresh piece of gauze over the site and bite down gently. Keep the gauze in place for 30 to 45 minutes, then check to see if the bleeding has slowed.

If the bleeding continues, you can replace the gauze and repeat the process. It’s important not to change the gauze too frequently, as this can disrupt the clotting process. Avoid activities that could disturb the blood clot, such as vigorous rinsing, spitting, or using straws, as these actions create suction that might dislodge the clot and lead to a condition known as dry socket.

Typically, bleeding should taper off within a few hours. However, if you experience heavy bleeding or if it continues for more than 24 hours, you should contact your dentist for further advice.

C. Dealing with Numbness

Numbness from the local anesthesia can last for a few hours post-extraction. During this time, it’s essential to be mindful of your actions to avoid injury. Refrain from eating or drinking hot liquids until sensation returns fully to your mouth. If you must eat, stick to soft foods that require minimal chewing, and avoid biting or chewing near the extraction site.

As the anesthesia wears off, you may begin to feel some discomfort or pain at the extraction site. This is normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or any medication prescribed by your dentist. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully to avoid overuse.

D. Pain Management

Pain is a common concern after tooth extraction, but it’s usually manageable with the right approach. Your dentist may recommend over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which can help reduce both pain and inflammation. In some cases, particularly after more complex extractions, a stronger prescription pain reliever may be provided.

It’s important to take any prescribed medication exactly as directed and to avoid taking more than the recommended dose of over-the-counter painkillers. Starting your pain medication before the anesthesia fully wears off can help you stay ahead of any discomfort. Additionally, applying an ice pack to the outside of your cheek near the extraction site can help reduce swelling and numb the area, further alleviating pain.

Pain typically peaks within 24 to 48 hours after the extraction and then gradually subsides. If you notice that the pain is worsening after a few days or if it becomes severe, this could be a sign of complications, such as dry socket or infection, and you should contact your dentist.

Common Post-Extraction Symptoms

After a tooth extraction, your body will go through a natural healing process. During this time, it’s common to experience a range of symptoms, some of which may be unfamiliar or cause concern. Understanding what’s normal and how to manage these symptoms can help you navigate the recovery period with greater ease. Here, we’ll cover the most common post-extraction symptoms and provide tips for managing them effectively.

A. Swelling and Bruising

Swelling is a normal response to the trauma of a tooth extraction and is most noticeable in the first 48 hours following the procedure. It’s your body’s way of protecting the affected area and beginning the healing process. The amount of swelling can vary depending on the complexity of the extraction, the location of the tooth, and your body’s individual response.

To manage swelling:

• Cold Compress: Apply an ice pack or a cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the extraction site. Do this in 15-minute intervals (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) for the first 24 hours. This helps to reduce both swelling and discomfort.
• Elevation: Keep your head elevated, even when sleeping, by propping up pillows. This helps to reduce blood flow to the area and minimize swelling.
• Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce swelling. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions provided by your dentist.

Swelling usually peaks around the second day after surgery and then gradually subsides. It’s normal for some bruising to accompany the swelling, particularly if the extraction was complicated or if you bruise easily. The bruising might take a little longer to disappear, but it should fade within a week to ten days.

B. Sore Throat and Stiff Jaw

Following a tooth extraction, particularly in the case of wisdom teeth or molars, you may experience a sore throat or a stiff jaw. This is because the muscles and tissues around your mouth and jaw can be affected by the procedure, especially if your mouth was open for an extended period during the extraction.

• Sore Throat: The sore throat is usually mild and should resolve within a few days. You can soothe your throat by staying hydrated with cool liquids and avoiding irritants like smoking or spicy foods.
• Stiff Jaw (Trismus): A stiff jaw, or trismus, may make it difficult to open your mouth wide or chew. To alleviate this stiffness, try gentle jaw exercises as directed by your dentist. Warm compresses applied to the jaw area can also help relax the muscles and improve mobility.

These symptoms should improve gradually as the inflammation in the area decreases. If the stiffness persists beyond a week or if it worsens, contact your dentist for further evaluation.

C. Bleeding and Discoloration

Some minor bleeding or oozing from the extraction site is normal for the first 24 hours. You might notice blood-tinged saliva, which is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, if bleeding becomes heavy or continuous, it’s important to manage it properly and, if necessary, seek advice from your dentist.

• Normal Bleeding: As mentioned earlier, to control bleeding, continue biting down on clean gauze for 30 to 45 minutes. If the gauze becomes soaked, replace it with a fresh piece. You can also use a damp tea bag as an alternative; the tannins in tea can help promote clotting.
• Blood Clot Formation: The formation of a blood clot at the extraction site is a key part of the healing process. This clot serves as a protective layer and aids in the regeneration of bone and tissue. It’s crucial not to disturb this clot in the days following your extraction.

Discoloration, such as a dark purple or yellowish hue, may appear on your gums or the skin around your mouth and is typically the result of bruising. This discoloration is normal and should resolve on its own within a week or so.

D. Dry Socket

One of the most common complications following a tooth extraction is dry socket, a condition that occurs when the blood clot at the extraction site becomes dislodged or fails to form properly. Without this clot, the underlying bone and nerves are exposed, leading to intense pain and delayed healing.

• Symptoms of Dry Socket: Severe pain that radiates to your ear, eye, or temple on the same side as the extraction site is the hallmark symptom of dry socket. Other signs include an unpleasant taste in your mouth and visible bone in the extraction socket.
• Prevention: To reduce your risk of developing dry socket, avoid smoking, spitting, using straws, and any other activities that could create suction in your mouth. Stick to soft foods, and follow your dentist’s guidelines on oral hygiene during the first few days after your extraction.
• Treatment: If you suspect you have dry socket, contact your dentist immediately. Treatment typically involves cleaning the socket, placing a medicated dressing, and managing pain with medication.

Diet and Activity After Extraction

After a tooth extraction, your body needs time to heal, and what you eat and how you go about your daily activities can significantly impact your recovery. Following a proper diet and being mindful of your physical activity can help prevent complications and promote faster healing. In this section, we’ll explore the dietary restrictions you should follow, the importance of staying hydrated, and how to manage your activity levels during the recovery period.

A. Dietary Restrictions

Your diet plays a crucial role in the healing process after a tooth extraction. Eating the wrong foods can irritate the extraction site, dislodge the blood clot, or cause infection. Here’s a guide to what you should avoid and what’s safe to eat:

• Foods to Avoid:
  • Hot Foods and Drinks: Hot temperatures can increase blood flow to the extraction site, potentially causing bleeding. Stick to cooler foods and drinks for the first 24-48 hours.
  • Spicy Foods: Spices can irritate the sensitive tissue around the extraction site, leading to discomfort and delayed healing.
  • Crunchy or Hard Foods: Chips, nuts, and other crunchy or hard foods can easily get lodged in the socket or dislodge the blood clot, increasing the risk of dry socket.
  • Chewy Foods: Foods that require a lot of chewing, like steak or bagels, can strain the extraction site and slow down healing.
  • Acidic Foods and Drinks: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and sodas can cause stinging and irritation in the sensitive extraction area.
• Recommended Foods:
  • Soft Foods: Opt for foods that require minimal chewing and are easy to swallow, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and applesauce.
  • Cool or Room Temperature Foods: Foods like smoothies (without a straw), ice cream, and cold soups are soothing and reduce the risk of disturbing the extraction site.
  • Nutrient-Rich Foods: Incorporate soft, nutrient-dense foods like avocado, cottage cheese, or blended vegetables to support healing.
  • Protein Sources: Soft scrambled eggs, smooth peanut butter, and protein shakes can provide the necessary protein without straining your mouth.
  • Avoiding Straw Use: When drinking liquids, avoid using straws. The suction can dislodge the blood clot, leading to dry socket. Instead, drink directly from a glass or cup.

As your mouth begins to heal, you can gradually reintroduce more solid foods into your diet. Start with softer solids like steamed vegetables or finely chopped meats, and listen to your body—if a particular food causes discomfort, hold off on eating it until you’ve healed further.

B. Hydration

Staying hydrated is essential during your recovery. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that hydration aids rather than hinders your healing process.

• Avoid Straws: As mentioned, using a straw can create suction that may dislodge the blood clot at the extraction site, leading to dry socket. Drink directly from a glass or use a spoon if necessary.
• Room Temperature Water: Drinking water at room temperature is ideal. Avoid ice-cold water immediately after the extraction, as it might cause sensitivity or discomfort.
• Avoid Carbonated and Acidic Beverages: Carbonated drinks like soda can irritate the extraction site, and acidic beverages like orange juice can cause a burning sensation. Stick to water, milk, or herbal teas for the first few days.
• Hydration Tips: Drink small amounts frequently throughout the day to stay hydrated without overwhelming your system. This will help keep your mouth moist and aid in the healing process.

Proper hydration not only supports overall health but also helps maintain oral hygiene by keeping the mouth clean and free of excess bacteria.

C. Activity Levels

In the days following your tooth extraction, your body will need time to rest and recover. It’s essential to adjust your activity levels to avoid complications like increased bleeding or delayed healing.

• Rest is Crucial: Resting allows your body to focus its energy on healing. Plan to take it easy for at least 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting, bending over, or intense exercise during this time, as these can increase blood pressure and lead to excessive bleeding or swelling.
• Gradual Return to Normal Activities: After the initial rest period, you can slowly resume your normal activities, but listen to your body. If you feel any throbbing or increased pain at the extraction site, take it as a sign to rest further.
• Avoiding Excessive Talking or Chewing: Try to minimize talking, chewing, and other activities that involve excessive movement of the mouth, as these can strain the extraction site. When eating, chew on the opposite side of your mouth to prevent irritation.
• Sleep Position: When sleeping, keep your head elevated with pillows to reduce swelling and prevent blood from pooling in the extraction area. This position also helps minimize discomfort and promotes better healing.

Oral Hygiene Post-Extraction

Maintaining proper oral hygiene after a tooth extraction is crucial for preventing infection, promoting healing, and ensuring the best possible recovery outcome. However, special care must be taken when cleaning your mouth during this period to avoid disturbing the extraction site. In this section, we’ll discuss how to keep the area clean, when and how to use mouth rinses, and how to prevent infection.

A. Keeping the Area Clean

Good oral hygiene is essential, but immediately after a tooth extraction, you’ll need to modify your routine to protect the healing site.

• Brushing Your Teeth: You should continue brushing your teeth, but be extremely gentle around the extraction site. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid brushing directly over the extraction area for the first few days. Instead, brush the surrounding teeth and the rest of your mouth carefully to avoid disturbing the blood clot.
• Avoiding the Extraction Site: While it’s important to maintain your oral hygiene, avoid direct contact with the extraction site itself. Don’t poke, prod, or touch the area with your tongue or any objects, as this can dislodge the clot and lead to complications like dry socket.
• Flossing: Continue flossing your other teeth as you normally would, but be gentle and avoid flossing near the extraction site for the first few days. Once the area begins to heal, you can gradually reintroduce flossing around the site, but only when it feels comfortable.

Keeping your mouth clean without disturbing the extraction site is a delicate balance, but with care and attention, you can effectively prevent infection while promoting healing.

B. Mouth Rinses

Mouth rinsing is an important part of post-extraction care, but it should be done with caution to avoid disrupting the healing process.

• When to Start Rinsing: Generally, you should avoid rinsing your mouth for the first 24 hours after the extraction. This allows the blood clot to form undisturbed, which is essential for proper healing.
• Saltwater Rinses: After the initial 24 hours, you can start rinsing your mouth with a warm saltwater solution. This helps to keep the extraction site clean and reduces the risk of infection. To make the solution, mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Gently swish the solution around your mouth, particularly near the extraction site, and then spit it out. Do not swish vigorously or spit forcefully, as this can dislodge the clot. Aim to rinse with saltwater two to three times a day, especially after meals.
• Avoiding Commercial Mouthwashes: Commercial mouthwashes, especially those containing alcohol, should be avoided during the initial healing period, as they can be too harsh on the extraction site and delay healing. If you prefer to use a mouthwash, consult with your dentist to choose an appropriate, alcohol-free option that is gentle enough for use during recovery.

Using saltwater rinses is a simple yet effective way to maintain oral hygiene without compromising the healing process.

C. Avoiding Infection

Preventing infection is a top priority after a tooth extraction, as an infection can complicate recovery and lead to further issues. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:

• Signs of Infection: Be aware of the signs of infection, which can include increased pain, swelling, redness, fever, or pus discharge from the extraction site. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your dentist immediately for further evaluation and treatment.
• Preventive Measures:
  • Antibiotics: If your dentist prescribed antibiotics, be sure to take them exactly as directed, completing the entire course even if you start to feel better. This helps ensure that any potential infection is fully treated.
  • Avoiding Tobacco Use: Smoking or using other forms of tobacco can significantly increase your risk of infection and delay healing. Tobacco reduces blood flow to the gums, impairs the body’s ability to fight infection, and can also dislodge the clot, leading to dry socket. It’s best to avoid all forms of tobacco during your recovery period.
  • Maintaining Overall Health: Staying hydrated, eating a nutritious diet, and getting plenty of rest all contribute to a stronger immune system, which helps your body fend off potential infections.

When to Seek Professional Help

While most tooth extractions heal without complications, it’s crucial to recognize the signs that indicate something may not be right. Understanding when to seek professional help can prevent minor issues from becoming serious problems. In this section, we’ll explore the symptoms that require immediate attention and the importance of attending follow-up appointments.

A. Signs of Complications

After a tooth extraction, it’s normal to experience some pain, swelling, and minor bleeding. However, certain symptoms may indicate complications that require prompt dental attention. Here are the key signs to watch out for:

• Excessive Bleeding: While some bleeding is expected in the first 24 hours, continuous or heavy bleeding that doesn’t subside with gauze pressure is a cause for concern. If you find that the bleeding is not slowing down after several hours, or if you’re changing gauze frequently without improvement, contact your dentist immediately.
• Severe or Worsening Pain: Pain is normal after an extraction, but it should gradually improve with time. If you experience severe pain that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter pain medication or if the pain worsens after a few days, it could be a sign of dry socket or infection. Dry socket occurs when the blood clot dislodges or dissolves before the site fully heals, exposing the bone and nerves and causing intense pain. This condition requires professional treatment, often involving the placement of a medicated dressing to protect the area and relieve pain.
• Swelling That Increases Over Time: Initial swelling is normal, but if swelling continues to increase after the first 48 to 72 hours, it might indicate an infection. Swelling accompanied by fever, chills, or a general feeling of being unwell also suggests an infection and requires immediate dental evaluation.
• Pus or Discharge: The presence of pus or a foul-smelling discharge from the extraction site is a clear sign of infection. Infections need prompt treatment to prevent them from spreading to other areas of the body.
• Fever: A fever after a tooth extraction is not normal and often signals an infection. If you develop a fever above 100.4°F (38°C), or if you feel hot and cold chills, contact your dentist right away.
• Difficulty Breathing or Swallowing: Although rare, severe complications like an allergic reaction to medication or spreading infection can lead to difficulty breathing or swallowing. This is a medical emergency, and you should seek immediate care.

Recognizing these signs early and contacting your dentist can prevent more serious health issues. It’s better to err on the side of caution—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always a good idea to get it checked out.

B. Follow-Up Appointments

Follow-up appointments are a critical part of the post-extraction healing process. Your dentist will want to ensure that your mouth is healing properly and that no complications have arisen. Here’s what you can expect from these visits:

• Purpose of Follow-Up Appointments: During a follow-up appointment, your dentist will examine the extraction site to ensure that it’s healing as expected. They’ll check for signs of infection, ensure that the blood clot is intact, and assess your overall oral health. If sutures were placed during the extraction, the dentist may remove them at this visit, depending on whether they were dissolvable or non-dissolvable.
• Timing of Follow-Up: The timing of your follow-up appointment will depend on the complexity of your extraction and your dentist’s recommendations. Typically, a follow-up visit is scheduled about a week after the extraction, but it may be sooner if there are concerns about your recovery.
• What to Discuss: Use your follow-up appointment as an opportunity to discuss any concerns or unusual symptoms you’ve experienced since the extraction. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your recovery or request advice on managing any lingering discomfort. If you’ve experienced any complications, your dentist will provide appropriate treatment to address them.
• Long-Term Oral Health: Your dentist may also discuss long-term oral health during the follow-up appointment, especially if the extraction was part of a larger treatment plan. This could include options for tooth replacement, such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures, to restore function and aesthetics to your smile.

Attending your follow-up appointment is vital for ensuring a smooth and complete recovery. It’s also an opportunity to receive professional guidance on how to maintain your oral health moving forward.

By knowing when to seek professional help and the importance of follow-up care, you can stay proactive in your recovery process. With these steps in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any challenges that arise and ensure a successful outcome after your tooth extraction. In the next section, we’ll provide some final tips for a smooth recovery, emphasizing the importance of rest, patience, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

Recovering from a tooth extraction is a process that requires patience, care, and attention to your body’s needs. While the initial days after the procedure are the most critical, there are several steps you can take throughout your recovery to ensure everything goes smoothly. In this section, we’ll offer practical tips to help you navigate the healing process, emphasizing the importance of rest, maintaining a positive mindset, and allowing your body the time it needs to heal.

A. Rest and Relaxation

Rest is one of the most important factors in a successful recovery. After a tooth extraction, your body needs time and energy to heal, and rest allows this process to happen efficiently.

• Take It Easy: Plan to take a break from work, exercise, and other strenuous activities for at least 24 to 48 hours after your extraction. This period of rest is crucial for reducing the risk of complications like bleeding or dry socket.
• Create a Comfortable Environment: Make sure you have a comfortable place to rest, whether it’s your bed or a cozy chair. Keep your head elevated to minimize swelling, and have essentials like water, pain relief medication, and soft foods within easy reach.
• Listen to Your Body: Your body will signal when it needs more rest. If you feel tired or notice increased pain or swelling after activity, it’s a sign to slow down and allow more time for healing. Don’t push yourself to return to normal activities too quickly—your recovery will benefit from patience and care.

B. Staying Patient

Recovery from a tooth extraction takes time, and it’s essential to stay patient with the process. While it’s normal to want to get back to your usual routine as soon as possible, rushing the healing process can lead to setbacks.

• Understand the Healing Timeline: The first few days are typically the most uncomfortable, but with each passing day, you should notice gradual improvements. Complete healing of the extraction site can take a few weeks, especially for more complex extractions like wisdom teeth. By understanding this timeline, you can set realistic expectations and avoid frustration.
• Avoid Comparisons: Everyone’s healing process is different, and what’s normal for one person might not be the same for another. Avoid comparing your recovery to others and focus on following your dentist’s advice and listening to your body.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge the small milestones in your recovery, such as reduced swelling, less pain, or the ability to eat more solid foods. Celebrating these victories can help you stay positive and motivated during the healing process.

C. Maintaining a Positive Mindset

Your mindset plays a significant role in your recovery. Staying positive and managing stress can not only improve your mood but also support your body’s healing process.

• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Stress can hinder healing, so it’s important to find ways to relax and stay calm. Techniques like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga can help you manage stress and promote relaxation.
• Stay Engaged: While rest is crucial, staying mentally engaged can help you maintain a positive outlook. Engage in light activities that you enjoy, such as reading, watching your favorite shows, or doing puzzles. These activities can help distract you from discomfort and keep your spirits up.
• Seek Support: If you’re feeling anxious or down about your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or your dentist for support. Sometimes, talking about your concerns can help alleviate worries and provide reassurance.

Maintaining a positive mindset and staying patient with your recovery process will go a long way in ensuring a smooth and successful healing experience.

Conclusion

Recovering from a tooth extraction is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and proper care. By now, you should feel more confident in managing your recovery process, equipped with the knowledge of what to expect and how to handle the various aspects of post-extraction care. Let’s briefly recap the key points covered in this guide:

• Immediate Post-Extraction Care: You learned the importance of controlling bleeding, managing pain, and taking precautions during the critical hours following your extraction. These steps help set the foundation for a smooth recovery.
• Common Post-Extraction Symptoms: Understanding normal symptoms like swelling, bruising, and minor bleeding helps you differentiate between what’s expected and what might require further attention.
• Diet and Activity: The right foods and activity levels can significantly impact your healing process. Sticking to a soft, nutrient-rich diet and allowing your body ample rest are key components of a successful recovery.
• Oral Hygiene: Keeping the extraction site clean without disturbing it is crucial to preventing infection. Gentle brushing, careful rinsing with saltwater, and avoiding harsh mouthwashes all contribute to maintaining oral health during this period.
• When to Seek Professional Help: Recognizing the signs of complications, such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, or infection, empowers you to take prompt action if needed. Additionally, attending follow-up appointments ensures your recovery is on track.
• Tips for a Smooth Recovery: Resting, staying patient, and maintaining a positive mindset are all essential in helping your body heal effectively. Each of these elements plays a role in ensuring you recover fully and comfortably.

At Mergendent, our priority is your oral health and well-being. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic. Our dentist and support team are here to provide guidance, reassurance, and any additional care you may need.

Whether it’s a follow-up visit to check on your progress or advice on managing specific symptoms, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. Remember, your recovery is just as important to us as it is to you, and we’re here to ensure it’s a positive and successful experience.

Ready to take the next step in your oral health journey? Schedule your follow-up appointment today or contact us if you need assistance. Your healthy, confident smile is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you achieve it.

Thank you for trusting us with your dental care. We look forward to seeing you soon and helping you continue to smile with confidence.