Here is some bite-size, easy-to-follow advice because, let’s face it, you’ve got better things to do than worry about your teeth.
Right After (While Still Numb)
Ever tried drinking water while your mouth is numb? It’s weird, right? After your dental work, part of your mouth will be numb for a few hours. Please be super careful not to bite your cheek, lip, or tongue while you’re still numb. It’s easier to do than you think!
Tenderness Is Totally Normal
Your gums might feel a bit tender or sore for a few days, especially if we had to push around your gums. It’s like when you wear a tight shoe, and your foot says, “Hey, I’m not cool with this.” Your gums are just letting you know they need time to get use to everything.
Floss Like a Boss
Yes, you still need to floss! Crowns and bridges can still get cavities where the natural tooth interfaces the crown. If we asked you to wear a temporary for a week or two, please review the tips in the Temporary section below.
What’s Up with Sensitivity?
Feeling a bit more twinge when you sip a cold drink or chow down on something? That’s normal. It might take a few weeks, but this sensation should start to calm down and get back to normal.
Is My Bite Off?
Sometimes after dental work, your bite might feel a bit off, like when you step on a part of the floor that’s not level. If it doesn’t start feeling right after a few days, give us a call. You might just need a quick adjustment!
The “What If” Scenario: Needing a Root Canal
In instances where the loss of tooth structure was particularly deep, the affected tooth might struggle to recover, potentially necessitating a root canal. This scenario is uncommon but important to acknowledge as part of the spectrum of outcomes in dental restoration.
Got a temporary?
Take It Easy
Avoid chewing on the side with the new gear. It’s temporary for a reason.
Avoid the Sticky and Hard Stuff
Gum, candies, or anything that feels like it could be a workout for your jaw? Yeah, skip those.
Thread Lightly
Floss with care. Slide it out sideways rather than popping it out to avoid dislodging your temp crown or bridge.
Lose your Temporary?
Don’t stress! A temporary just helps to keep your other teeth from getting any ideas about shifting around. Even slotting it back in for a few hours a day will help maintain order. A little toothpaste or denture adhesive inside can act as a temporary glue to keep it in place. And if it’s looking like it’ll be more than a few days before you can get to our office, swing by a convenience store and grab some temporary cement to hold it in until you can get professional help, just be sure to read the instructions!
What about my permanent restoration?
Keep It Clean
Brush twice a day and floss daily. Just because it’s artificial doesn’t mean it doesn’t need love.
Cement Curing
Just like concrete needs time to cure, your crown/bridge cement may also require time to fully harden. Do yourself a favor and steer clear of those piping hot coffees for the next 12 hours to ensure it sets just right.
Bridge Care
Bridges need specialized attention! Be sure to floss underneath the span. You can also use an interdental brush (Proxabrush Go-Betweens) or a water flosser (Waterpik) to get underneath the span! Don’t know how to clean under the prosthetic tooth? Ask us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Temporary Crowns and Bridges
What is a temporary crown and why do I need one? A temporary crown is a provisional, short-term restoration placed on a prepared tooth until the permanent crown is made. Sometimes we ask you to wear a temporary crown to help ensure the tooth is recovering before we finalize anything. It protects the tooth and keeps it in the right position while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
How long will I have to wear a temporary crown or bridge? You’ll typically wear a temporary crown or bridge for 1 week while your permanent restoration is being made.
Can I eat normally with a temporary crown or bridge? Yes, but you should avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods that might dislodge or damage the temporary restoration.
What should I do if my temporary crown falls out or breaks? If your temporary crown falls out or breaks, try to get it back in place and give us a call. We may be able to re-cement it or fabricate a new one until your permanent restoration arrives.
Permanent Crowns and Bridges
What materials are used for permanent crowns and bridges? Permanent crowns and bridges can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination, depending on the location of the tooth and aesthetic considerations.
How long do permanent crowns and bridges last? With proper care, permanent crowns and bridges can last 15 years or more, though this varies based on oral hygiene practices, materials, and individual habits.
How do I care for my permanent crown or bridge? Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily (using special flossers for bridges), and visiting our dental office regularly for check-ups and cleanings.
Are there any restrictions once I have my permanent crown or bridge? No significant restrictions, but maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding excessively hard or extremely sticky foods can help prolong their lifespan.
Complications and Other Common Questions
What if my permanent crown or bridge feels off or uncomfortable? Give us a call! Adjustments might be necessary to ensure a proper fit and bite alignment.
My crown is chipped. What should I do? Small chips might be repairable, but significant damage usually requires a new crown.
Can a permanent crown or bridge fall out? Yes, though rare, it can happen due to decay under the crown, poor fit, or trauma. Let us know immediately if your crown or bridge is off or if you suspect it is loose. If it is out for too long (typically longer than a week) it may no longer fit down anymore due to your teeth shifting.
Why is my tooth sensitive after getting a crown? Some sensitivity is normal, especially to heat or cold, but it should subside. If it persists or worsens, please call our dental office.
How do crowns and bridges affect my oral health? They restore and protect your teeth, improving oral health overall, but require the same care as natural teeth to prevent decay and gum disease.
What happens if I delay getting a permanent crown or bridge? Delaying can lead to tooth movement, further damage, or decay. This usually means more expensive and complicated treatment with shorter long term outcomes.
Is getting a crown or bridge painful? The procedure involves local anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the process. Some discomfort after the procedure is normal but manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can I replace old crowns or bridges? Yes, old or worn-out crowns and bridges can be replaced following an evaluation.
Will my speech be affected by crowns or bridges? If your new dental work includes work on your front teeth, there may be a brief adjustment period for speech, but most people quickly adapt and notice no long-term impacts.
Can I whiten my crowns or bridges? No, dental restorations do not respond to whitening treatments. It’s best to whiten teeth before getting a new crown or bridge for a color match.
What if I’m unhappy with the appearance of my crown or bridge? If you’re dissatisfied with the aesthetics of your old crown or bridge, discuss it with your dentist. Adjustments or replacements can be made to meet your expectations.