Experiencing some discomfort after a crown or bridge preparation is completely normal. The process can temporarily irritate your teeth and surrounding tissues, but with proper care, your mouth will heal smoothly and comfortably.
What to Expect After Your Appointment
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
This is all part of the normal healing process.
Managing Discomfort
Take an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen or naproxen as recommended to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
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.
Eating & Chewing Guidelines
To protect your temporary crown or bridge, please follow these precautions:
Avoid hard or sticky foods (e.g., nuts, caramel, gum) that could dislodge or damage the temporary.
Chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible.
If your mouth is numb from local anesthesia, avoid hot food or drinks to prevent accidental burns.
Do not floss around the temporary crown or bridge in the usual way. If needed, gently slide the floss out sideways rather than pulling it up or down to avoid loosening the temporary.
If Your Temporary Crown or Bridge Falls Off
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 uncomfortable doing this yourself, and there’s no pain, store the temporary safely in a clean plastic bag and bring it with you to our office during regular hours.
Important: Avoid chewing on the exposed tooth until the temporary is replaced.
If Your Temporary Breaks
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.
Gum Soreness & Tissue Care
Mild soreness in the gums after crown or bridge prep is common and usually heals within a few days.
Rinse your mouth 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.
Jaw Soreness or TMJ Discomfort
Keeping your mouth open for an extended time during treatment 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.
When to Contact Us
Please call our office if you experience:
Persistent or severe pain
Significant swelling or bleeding
A loose, broken, or missing temporary crown or bridge
We’re here to make sure your recovery is smooth and your final restoration fits beautifully. Thank you for trusting us with your smile!