SMILE MAKEOVER INSTRUCTIONS
Q: How Long Will I Be Numb?
A: 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.
Q: If It Normal For My Gums To Be Sore?
A: Irritation to the gum tissue can occur from dental work. Rinsing your mouth 2-3 times per day with 1/2 tsp warm saltwater 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.
Q: My Bite Feels Off, Is this Normal?
A: If your bite feels uneven, please call our office so we can make a quick adjustment to the temporary or final restoration. Do not assume your bite will get better with time. The tooth may become irritated and a toothache may occur, if this is not done. It may also cause an increase in temperature sensitivity with the tooth.
Q: Is It Normal For My Tooth To Be Sensitive?
A: It is normal to experience some sensitivity to heat, cold, sweets and pressure after your appointment. It is common for this sensitivity to last several months after treatment. Usually, the deeper the cavity, the more sensitive the tooth will be. Again, make sure that your bite feels even.
Q: What Foods Should I Avoid With The Temporary?
A: Do not eat directly on the temporary as it may fracture. Instead, use your fork and knife to cut your food into pieces rather than biting directly into food. Avoid eating chewy or sticky foods, such as gum, taffy, licorice, etc. Avoid foods and drinks that would stain a white shirt such as coffee, tea, wine, dark sodas, tobacco, berries, etc… as they may discolor the temporary.
Q: What Should I Do If My Temporary Comes Off Or Chips?
A: Occasionally, a temporary crown, bridge or veneer may come off or fracture. Call us if this occurs and bring your temporary to the office so that we may recement or repair it. If the temporary comes off during off hours or if you are out-of-town, you can purchase recementing products from the drug store and attempt to do it yourself. It is important for the temporary to stay in place as it will prevent other teeth from shifting.
Q: Can I Brush & Floss Around My Temporary?
A: You may brush your teeth and temporary crown, bridge or veneer as usual using a soft toothbrush. Floss your temporary carefully. Do not pull up on the floss as this may dislodge or loosen the temporary. Instead, pull the floss out from the side of the temporary. If a temporary bridge was placed or if your temporary veneers are one piece, use a floss threader to clean underneath and pull the floss out through the side or front of the temporary.
