After Crown and Bridge Work
Crowns and bridges usually take two or three appointments to complete. In the first visit, the teeth are prepared and molds of the mouth are taken.
Temporary or provisional crowns or bridges are placed to protect the teeth while the custom restoration is being made. Since the teeth will be anesthetized, the tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth may be numb.
Please refrain from eating and drinking hot beverages until the numbness is completely worn off.
Occasionally a provisional crown may come off or fracture. If so, call us at Kenneth M. Van Stralen, DDS Phone Number 703-317-3900. If possible bring whatever remains of the provisional crown with you so we can re-cement or remake it.
It is very important for the provisional crown or bridge to stay in place, as it will prevent other teeth from moving. The loss of a provisional may compromise the fit of your final restoration.
To keep your provisional crowns and bridges in place, avoid eating sticky foods (gum), hard foods, and if possible, chew on the side of your mouth away from where the work was done.
It is important to brush and floss. When flossing, pull the floss “outward” to the side of your mouth rather than “upwards” towards the center of your mouth.
Pulling “up” on the floss may dislodge the provisional. Provisional restorations for onlays are held in place by wedging into the space between teeth and should not be flossed.
It is normal to experience some temperature and pressure sensitivity after each appointment. The sensitivity should subside a few days after the placement of the final restoration.
If pain or discomfort persists for more than three days, if your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent pain, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office at Kenneth M. Van Stralen, DDS Phone Number 703-317-3900 to schedule a follow-up appointment.
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