Post-Op Crowns & Bridges

Post-Op Instructions – Crowns and Bridges

Crowns and bridges typically require two to three appointments at our dental office. If we use anesthetic during the appointment, your teeth, lips, cheeks, and tongue may be numb for several hours. Avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

After the first appointment, our dentists will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth until the next appointment. Although it does not happen often, the temporary crown may come off. If this occurs, please keep the temporary crown and call our dental office as soon as possible so we can re-cement the crown. Avoid eating sticky or hard foods, and chew only on the opposite side of the mouth to help keep the temporary crown in place. Be sure to continue brushing your teeth normally, but floss carefully. Remove the floss from the side to prevent removing the temporary crown.

You can expect to experience some discomfort following each appointment. It is normal to experience increased sensitivity to pressure and to hot and cold temperatures. To reduce pain and swelling, take medication as directed and rinse three times per day with warm salt water (put one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water).

If your crown or bridge feels uneven after the final appointment, or if you experience persistent pain, please call our dental office.