Caring for Your Dental Crown or Bridge: Easy Post-Op Instructions
Welcome to Edgemere Dental! If you’ve just got a new dental crown or bridge, you might be wondering what comes next. Don’t worry—we’re here to help you with everything you need to know about taking care of your teeth after the procedure. Let’s dive into some simple and important steps to ensure your dental work stays in great shape!
What to Expect After Your Dental Work
After getting a dental crown or bridge, you might notice that your mouth feels a little different. This is completely normal! You may have a temporary crown or bridge in place to protect your teeth while your custom restoration is being made. Here are a few things you may experience:
- Numbness: Your tongue, lips, and the roof of your mouth might be numb after your procedure. This is because the dentist used a special medicine to keep you from feeling pain during the procedure. Just remember, don’t eat or drink anything hot until the numbness goes away!
Easy Foods to Eat After Your Procedure
For the first 24 hours, it’s best to stick to soft foods. This helps protect your temporary crown or bridge and keeps them from breaking or coming off. Here are some tasty and safe options:
- Jell-O
- Applesauce
- Greek Yogurt
- Scrambled Eggs
- Mashed Potatoes
- Oatmeal
- Cooled Soup
- Macaroni & Cheese
- Ice Cream
- Pudding
- Chicken (finely chopped)
- Ground Beef
If your temporary crowns are on the front teeth, try cutting your food into small pieces and chewing with your back teeth. Avoid biting directly into food like apples or carrots.
Keeping Your Teeth Clean and Healthy
Taking care of your teeth is super important, especially when you have a temporary crown or bridge. Here are some tips to keep your mouth clean and your dental work in place:
- Brush Regularly: Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Be gentle around your temporary crown.
- Floss Carefully: When flossing, pull the floss through your teeth rather than lifting it up. This will help avoid dislodging your temporary crown.
Why Your Temporary Crown is Important
Your temporary crown or bridge plays a big role in protecting your tooth and making sure there’s enough space for your permanent crown or bridge. If your temporary crown needs to be re-cemented or gets damaged, don’t worry! Just contact us at Edgemere Dental, and we’ll be happy to help fix it.
Managing Discomfort and Sensitivity
It’s normal to feel some sensitivity to temperature and pressure after getting your crown or bridge. Here are a few ways to manage any discomfort:
- Saltwater Rinse: If you feel sensitivity around your gums, rinse your mouth four times a day with a warm saltwater solution. Just mix ½ teaspoon of salt with ½ cup of water.
- Pain Medication: If you’re feeling uncomfortable, you can take pain medication like ibuprofen to help ease the discomfort. Remember to follow the instructions on the label or ask an adult for help.
When to Call the Dental Office
Most of the time, any discomfort or sensitivity will go away in a few weeks. But if your pain gets worse or is more than just mild discomfort, it’s important to contact us at Edgemere Dental. We’re here to help you feel better and make sure your dental work is perfect!
Schedule Your Dental Crown Or Bridge Consultation Today!
Taking care of your dental crown or bridge doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you can keep your mouth healthy and ensure your dental work lasts a long time. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, we’re just a phone call away. Thank you for choosing Edgemere Dental for your dental care, and here’s to a healthy and happy smile!
