After Crown and Bridge Appointments

It requires two or three appointments to complete crown and bridge work, and there are a few simple precautions you should take to ensure a successful procedure, beginning with the way your treat your temporary crown or bridge.

In some instances, your tongue, lips and the roof of your mouth may be numb immediately after the procedure, as a result of the anesthetic used. You should refrain from eating and avoid hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off, because it is easy to bite your lip or burn your tongue during this period.

During the entire time your temporary crown is in place, you should avoid eating sticky foods (including chewing gum) and hard foods, because these can cause it to come off. It is also desirable to chew on the opposite side of your mouth, for the same reason.

If a temporary crown does come off, despite your precautions, contact us right away so we can re-cement it, because allowing it to remain out of your mouth may cause your other teeth to move and prevent your final crown from fitting properly.

It is important to brush normally, but floss carefully and don’t pull up on the floss in a way that may dislodge the temporary. Pulling the floss out from the side of the temporary will enable you to prevent a problem.

After each appointment, it is normal to experience sensitivity to both temperature and pressure. This should go away within a few weeks of your final restoration, and can be controlled with mild medications, as directed by your dentist. If you have persistent pain, or if your bite feels uneven (or if you have any other concerns), you should contact us at 952-836-1113.

© 2011 Twin Cities Dental Center