Crown & Bridge Preparation Aftercare

Dental work, especially on hard tooth structures, may trigger the body’s natural healing response. Since teeth can’t swell like soft tissue, this response may present as:

• A dull ache
• Sensitivity to pressure, temperature, or sweets
• Minor pain when chewing

• Take an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or naproxen as recommended.
• Most discomfort resolves within two weeks.
• If pain becomes severe or persists beyond that, contact our office promptly.
• Refer to our Over-the-Counter Pain Management Protocol if needed.

To protect your temporary crown or bridge, please follow these precautions:

• Avoid hard or sticky foods (nuts, caramel, gum) that could dislodge or damage the temporary.
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible.
• If you’re numb from anesthesia, avoid hot food/drinks to prevent accidental burns.
• Do not floss around the temporary the usual way.
  Gently slide floss out sideways rather than lifting up/down to avoid loosening it.

The temporary protects your tooth and keeps your gums and nearby teeth in proper alignment.

• You can often reattach it at home using toothpaste or temporary dental cement (available at most pharmacies).
• If you’re not comfortable doing this, and there’s no pain, store it in a clean plastic bag and bring it to our office during regular hours.

• Contact our office during business hours to have a new temporary made and placed.
• Do not attempt to repair or wear a broken temporary on your own.

Mild soreness in the gums after crown/bridge prep is common and usually heals within a few days.

• Rinse with warm salt water (½ teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water) 2–3 times daily.
• Take an OTC anti-inflammatory to relieve soreness or swelling.
• If swelling worsens or pain increases, please contact our office.

Keeping your mouth open for an extended time can lead to jaw soreness or TMJ stiffness.

• Avoid foods that require wide or forceful chewing.
• Use a warm compress or ice pack on the outer jaw to soothe sore muscles.
• Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce discomfort.