complication management is the planned process of preventing, recognizing, and responding to unwanted outcomes in dental care. It includes clinical steps (what the team does) and communication steps (what is explained and documented). It is commonly used in restorative dentistry, surgery, endodontics, implant care, and dental emergencies. The goal is to reduce harm and restore function and comfort when an issue occurs.

A soft diet is a temporary eating pattern that emphasizes foods requiring minimal chewing. It commonly uses soft, tender, mashed, minced, or puréed textures to reduce bite forces. In dentistry, it is often recommended after procedures or when teeth and gums are sore. It is also used in broader medical care when chewing or swallowing is difficult.

chlorhexidine rinse is an antiseptic mouth rinse used to lower the number of certain oral bacteria. It is commonly prescribed in dentistry for short-term plaque and gingivitis control. It may also be used around dental procedures when the mouth needs extra antimicrobial support. It is typically dispensed as a prescription-strength rinse, depending on region and product.

ice therapy is the controlled use of cold (usually via an ice pack or cold compress) to support comfort and tissue recovery. In dental settings, it is most commonly used after procedures that can trigger swelling or soreness. It is a supportive measure and does not treat tooth decay or “fix” teeth. People may also hear it called **cold therapy** or **cryotherapy** in general healthcare.

postoperative care is the set of steps taken after a dental procedure to support healing and monitor outcomes. It includes clinician instructions, home-care measures, and follow-up when needed. It is commonly used after extractions, implants, periodontal therapy, root canal treatment, and restorative dentistry. Its goal is to reduce complications and help patients understand what to expect during recovery.

trismus means reduced ability to open the mouth normally. It is commonly described as “jaw stiffness” or “lockjaw,” though “lockjaw” can mean different things in different settings. Dentists and physicians use the term to document limited jaw opening and its impact on speaking, eating, hygiene, and dental care. trismus is a sign or symptom, not a single disease, and it can have multiple underlying causes.

swelling means an increase in the size or fullness of a tissue area. In dentistry, swelling is commonly discussed in the gums, cheeks, lips, jaw, and floor of the mouth. It is a clinical sign (something observed), not a diagnosis by itself. Dentists use the term swelling when documenting findings and narrowing down possible causes.

ecchymosis is the clinical term for a bruise caused by blood leaking into tissues under the skin or mucosa. It often looks like a flat, purple-blue discoloration that gradually changes color as it resolves. Dentists and physicians use the word ecchymosis in chart notes to describe bruising around the face, lips, or inside the mouth. In dental settings, it may be seen after trauma, injections, surgery, or minor soft-tissue injury.

A hematoma is a localized collection of blood outside of a blood vessel. It usually forms when a small vessel breaks and blood pools into nearby tissues. In dental care, a hematoma most commonly appears after injections, trauma, or oral surgery. Clinicians use the term to describe and document this type of bleeding-related swelling and bruising.

hemorrhage means bleeding that occurs when a blood vessel is damaged. In dental settings, hemorrhage can range from mild gum bleeding to heavier bleeding after surgery or trauma. Clinicians use the term to describe the amount, source, and control of bleeding during care. Understanding hemorrhage helps explain why dentists focus on dryness and visibility during many procedures.