The process of getting crowns or bridges can take around two or three appointments. Therefore, we want to ensure that you take good care of the temporary device and your tooth to avoid infection or other complications. Here are a few guidelines to follow immediately after your first appointment to keep your teeth and new restorative devices in good condition.
During the process of preparing your tooth for the crown or bridge, your dentist will use an anesthetic to ensure you don’t feel anything throughout. This can take some time to wear off, so be certain to avoid hot foods and beverages until the sensation has been restored. If you experience any nausea as a result of the anesthetic, we recommend drinking flat cola (such as Pepsi or Coke).
The process of having crowns or bridges placed can take about two to three appointments. Your teeth are shaped during your first appointment, and molds are taken to form your custom-made device. While you wait for your new crown or bridge, we will place temporary crowns or bridges to protect your teeth and keep them from shifting. To ensure these temporary devices stay in place, you will want to avoid chewing sticky or hard foods until your final device is set, particularly on the side of your restoration. Otherwise, foods like nuts, caramel, or chewing gum can stick to your temporary device and dislodge it. You should especially avoid chewing anything during the first hour after your temporary device has been set, as the cement takes some time to dry. If your temporary device falls off, attempt to slide it back into place and then immediately call our offices so that we can re-cement it.
It is essential to keep your mouth clean when getting crowns or bridges, particularly when you have the temporary device in place. To do so, brush your teeth regularly, paying close attention to the gum line around the plastic crown. You should also floss around this area very carefully. To do so, thread the floss through at the gum line by the device. Do not pull the floss up, or you may loosen the crown. You can also use a saltwater rinse for the first three days of having your temporary device. Mix a 1/4 teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water, then gently swish the solution through your teeth (without swallowing). You can repeat this 2-3 times per day. By taking good care of your temporary device, you can avoid infection during the healing process.
You may experience sensitivity to heat and cold during the process of getting crowns and bridges. Gum tenderness and soreness are also common, particularly in the area where your anesthetic was injected. This should go away on its own in the first couple of weeks after the final restoration has been placed, but over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol or ibuprofen can help to manage your pain in the meantime. You might also consider brushing with a desensitizing toothpaste like Sensodyne to help with your dental sensitivity. If your pain persists beyond a couple of weeks after your final restoration, call our offices to discuss the problem with your dentist.
Immediately after receiving an anesthetic, be certain to avoid hot foods and beverages, as you may inadvertently burn your mouth or tongue. You will need to be careful about the foods you eat while your temporary device is in place, particularly for the first 24 hours while the cement dries. We recommend that you avoid eating sticky or chewy foods while your temporary device is in place—this includes foods like candy, chewing gum, and bagels. Crunchy and hard foods like chips or nuts should also be avoided. Be certain to chew on the other side of your mouth to keep the device in good condition.
While most patients do not struggle with an uneven bite after the procedure, there is still a possibility that this can occur after your restorative procedure. If you still feel this sensation of having an uneven bite when your anesthetic has worn away completely, contact your dentist straight away. This should be remedied as soon as possible to keep your new crown or bridge in good condition.
Do you have any questions about how to care for your crowns or bridges? Contact St. John Smiles today!
Address:
9486 Wicker Ave, St. John, IN 46373