After Inlay, Onlay, Crown and Bridge Appointments

Inlays, Onlays, Crowns and Bridges usually take at least two appointments to complete. In the first visit, the teeth are prepared and molds of your mouth are made. Temporary crowns or bridges (provisionals) are placed to protect the teeth while the custom restoration is being fabricated. Since the teeth will be anesthetized, the tongue, lips, cheeks 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 temporary crown may come off. Call us at New York Office Phone Number 212-986-4830 if this happens and bring the temporary crown with you so we can re-cement it. It is very important for the temporary to stay in place, as it will prevent other teeth from moving and compromising the fit of your final restoration. To keep your temporaries in place, avoid eating sticky foods (gum), hard foods, and if possible, chew on the opposite side of your mouth. It is important to brush normally, but floss carefully and don’t pull up on the floss which may dislodge the temporary crown. Rather pull the floss out from the side of the temporary crown.

Your gums may feel irritated for a couple days after each appointment. Warm salt water rinses (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times a day will reduce pain and inflammation. It is also normal to experience some temperature and pressure sensitivity after each appointment. The sensitivity should subside a few weeks after the placement of the final restoration. A mild pain medication (Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Motrin) every 4 hours) should ease any residual discomfort.  With your new dental work it is even more important to come in for cleanings regularly and maintain the work well at home (brushing at least twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing properly at least once daily). With bridges or connected teeth, it is critical to use Superfloss, Proxabrushes or flossthreaders underneath them. If you have a nightguard, wear as directed. If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent pain or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office New York Office Phone Number 212-986-4830.