Numbness

Your lips, teeth, cheek and/or tongue may be numb for several hours after the procedure. To avoid injury, you should avoid any chewing and hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off. It is very easy to bite or burn your tongue, cheek or lip while you are numb.

Sore Gums or Jaw

Irritation to the gum tissue can occur from dental work. Rinsing your mouth 2-3 times per day with a warm saltwater rinse (1/2 tsp salt mixed with 8 oz. of warm water) can help alleviate discomfort. Injection sites can be sore for several days after your appointment. Over-the-counter pain medications work well to alleviate the tenderness.

Uneven Bite

If your bite feels uneven, please call our dental office so we can make a quick adjustment to the restoration. Do not assume your bite will get better after time. The tooth may become irritated and a toothache may occur if this adjustment is not done where necessary. It may also cause an increase in temperature sensitivity with the tooth.

Tooth Sensitivity

It is normal to experience some sensitivity to heat, cold, sweets and pressure after your appointment. This sensitivity may last from several weeks to several months after your appointment. Usually, the deeper the cavity, the more sensitive the tooth will be. Again, make sure that your bite feels even.

Foods to Avoid With Your Temporary Restoration

Avoid eating chewy and sticky foods, such as gum, taffy, licorice, etc. Also, try not to eat hard foods directly on the temporary as it may fracture. It is best, if possible, to chew on the opposite side from the tooth that was worked on to avoid dislodging the temporary.

Why Do I Need a Temporary?

While the custom restoration is being made, temporaries serve to protect the teeth and to help minimize temperature sensitivity. In addition, they help to prevent movement of the adjacent and opposing teeth so that the final restoration will fit properly.

What to do if the Temporary Falls Off

A temporary crown may occasionally fall off or fracture. If this happens, please contact us and bring your temporary to our office so that we can re-cement or repair it. If the temporary falls off after hours or if you are out of town, drug stores sell products that will hold you over until you can get to our office.

Brush & Floss Near the Temporary

Brush your teeth and temporary restoration with a soft toothbrush as usual. Unless otherwise directed, carefully floss around your temporary crown. Pulling up and down on the floss may dislodge or loosen the temporary. Instead, pull the floss out from the side of the temporary. If you have a temporary bridge, a floss threader should be used.

Please do not hesitate to contact our dental office if you have concerns.