Instructions after Crown and Bridge Appointments
- Crowns and bridgesusually take two or three appointments to complete.
- In the first visit, the teeth are prepared and molds of the mouth are taken. Temporary crowns or bridgesare placed to protect the teeth while the custom restoration is being made.
- Since the teeth will be anesthetized, the tongue, lips and roof of the mouth may be numb. Please refrain from eating and drinking hot beverages until the numbness is completely worn off.
- Occasionally a temporary crown may come off. Call us if this happens, and bring the temporary crown with you so we can re-cement it. It is very important for the temporary to stay in place, as it will prevent other teeth from moving and compromising the fit of your final restoration.
To keep your temporaries in place, avoid eating sticky foods (gum), hard foods, and if possible, chew on the opposite side of your mouth. It is important to brush normally, but floss carefully and don’t pull up on the floss which may dislodge the temporary, but pull the floss out from the side of the temporary crown.
- It is normal to experience some temperature and pressure sensitivity after each appointment. The sensitivity should subside a few weeks after the placement of the final restoration. Mild pain medications may also be used as directed by our office.
- If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent pain, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office.
Instructions after Crown/Bridge Delivery
- Do not try to test the appliance during the first 24 hrs by pulling it or even by trying to eat on it any hard or sticky food.
- Remember that it will take time to adjust to the feel of your new bite. It takes several days for the brain to recognize the new position of your teeth or their thickness as normal. If you continue to detect any high spots or problems with your bite, call our office so we can schedule an adjustment appointment.
- It is normal to experience some hot and cold sensitivity. The teeth require some time to heal after removal of tooth structure and will be sensitive for some time. Your gums may also be sore for a few days. Warm salt water rinses (a half teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times a day will reduce pain and swelling. A mild pain medication should ease any residual discomfort.
- Don’t be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days. You’ll quickly adapt and be speaking normally.
- You may notice increased salivation. This is because your brain is responding to the new size and shape of your teeth. This should subside back to normal in about a week.
- Daily brushing and flossing are a must for your new dental work. Daily plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your new teeth, as are regular cleaning appointments every 6 months. You should also carry out all oral hygiene measures as following:
- Brush your teeth at least 3 times per day.
- Floss the areas between your teeth, and around your new appliance, or just clean it using an interdental brush after each meal.
- Use your daily prophylactic mouthwash twice per day, having importantly to use right before you go to bed after cleaning and flossing.
- Any food that can crack, chip or damage a natural tooth can do the same to your new teeth. Avoid hard foods and substances and sticky candies.
- If you engage in sports let us know so we can make a custom mouth guard. Also, you should let us know if you grind your teeth at night so we can make a custom mouth guard for you to wear during your sleep.