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After Crown and Bridge Appointments

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Crowns and bridges usually take two or three appointments to complete. On the first appointment the teeth are prepared. Temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect the teeth while the custom-made restoration is being made. After each appointment when anesthetic has been used, your lips, teeth and tongue may be numb for several hours after the appointment. Avoid any chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.   It's normal to experience some hot, cold, and pressure sensitivity after each appointment. Your gums may be sore for several days. Rinse three times a day with warm salt water (a tsp. of salt in a cup of warm water, rinse-swish-spit) to reduce pain and swelling. Use medication only as directed.   To help keep your temporary in place, avoid eating sticky foods (especially gum), hard foods, and if possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth. It's important to continue to brush normally, but please avoid flossing because this could dislodge your temporary crowns.

If your temporary loosens... Occasionally, even with careful wearing, temporaries will become loose.  This is normally not an emergency. The teeth will not become infected or decayed if the temporary is missing for a short period of time. However, the underlying tooth may feel sensitive to food and drink. If needed, Aspirin, Tylenol or Advil are good pain relievers and should be tried first, provided you can use them. Make sure to follow proper dosing instructions. They only work by swallowing them. Do not place aspirin/Advil/Tylenol on the tooth or gum. They will burn the lining of your mouth. Keep the tooth clean by rinsing the mouth with warm water and gently brushing the area.  Call Dr. Neuhaus.

If your temporary dislodges and you are unable to seek immediate dental care... You can put a small amount of Vaseline inside the temporary crown or bridge and reseat it on the teeth. This will hold it in place until you can get in and see us or... You may purchase an over-the-counter temporary cement material (available at local drug stores) which will allow you to replace the temporary yourself. This will reduce discomfort and keep food away from the teeth. Follow the package's instructions.

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