Hope you're doing well! We wanted to drop you a note with some post-op instructions for the temporary dental crown or bridge we placed today and what's next.

The temporary crown or bridge we placed today protects the treatment site while your custom crown or bridge is being made. It's normal for your gums to be tender due to retraction or removal of excess tissue. Swishing with salt water several times a day will aid in healing. Advil/Tylenol can be used for any discomfort. Please do your best to chew on the opposite side until your next visit, during which we will seat your permanent.

Anesthesia should wear off approximately 2-4 hours following your procedure, unless you opted for numbing reversal, in which case the numbing effects should subside much sooner. In the meantime, it's important to avoid chewing on the numb side of your mouth to prevent biting your tongue, cheek, or lip.

Temporary restorations are designed to be easily removed, so please avoid sticky foods and avoid biting on them. If your temporary crown or bridge comes off before your next appointment, place the temporary back on your tooth using a small amount of Vaseline or denture adhesive, and call our office. It is very important to replace the temporary to protect the treatment site and fit of the new crown or bridge.

With your temporary, you may experience some minor discomfort due to irritation of the area during the treatment procedures. You may also experience sensitivity to cold or pressure. Since your temporary is made of plastic, it does not insulate the tooth as well, nor is it as strong as the permanent one will be. Therefore, there may be some sensitivity to hot, cold, and chewing. Please call us if it becomes too uncomfortable.

Worried about the look for your temporary? Your new permanent crown or bridge will be shaped and shaded to match your teeth in both color and fit. The temporary crown or bridge is made to serve you temporarily, so its color and fit are not custom-matched to your teeth.

As always, if you need anything at all, please reach out – we're always here for you. Thank you for the continued trust and the opportunity to deliver your dental care.