Temporary Crown After-Care Instructions at McLean Healthy Smiles

Congratulations on taking a step towards a healthier, more confident smile!

You’ve just received a temporary crown at McLean Healthy Smiles, and while it’s a temporary fixture, proper care is essential for protecting your prepared tooth and ensuring the success of your permanent crown. By following these temporary crown after care instructions diligently, you can minimize discomfort and potential complications.

Temporary Crown After Care: The Essentials

After anesthesia, wait for any numbness to wear off before chewing. This usually takes about an hour. Steer clear of hard and sticky foods like gum. If you can, chew on the unaffected side of your mouth.

You can brush your teeth normally, but be gentle when flossing, pulling the floss out to the side of the tooth. If your teeth become sensitive to temperature or pressure, a desensitizing toothpaste may help. If the sensitivity worsens or continues for more than a few days, call our office.

If your temporary crown becomes dislodged, please keep it safe so we can reattach it. The temporary crown must remain in place to ensure a proper fit for the permanent crown.

What Is a Temporary Crown?

Your temporary crown serves as a placeholder, protecting your prepared tooth and maintaining its position while your permanent crown is being crafted. It’s designed to be durable enough for everyday use, but requires a little extra TLC. Think of it like a stand-in actor – it plays the lead role until the star arrives!

It’s a cap shaped like a tooth, shielding it from harm. A prepared tooth needs protection until its permanent crown is ready. A temporary crown fills this role. These temporary crowns are made from materials that are not as strong as permanent ones.

Although temporary crowns are designed to mimic the shape and function of your natural tooth, allowing you to eat and speak comfortably, they are not as strong as permanent crowns and require special attention to prevent damage or dislodgement.

Key Temporary Crown Aftercare Instructions

Now that the anesthesia has completely worn off, let’s identify some key aftercare instructions you will need to follow at home.

Eating with Your Temporary Crown

Stick to softer foods, and avoid extremely sticky or hard foods like gum, caramel, and ice. Cut your food into smaller pieces and chew on the side opposite your temporary crown. Think of it as a culinary adventure – explore softer textures and rediscover the joy of well-cooked vegetables!

Cleaning Around Your Temporary Crown

Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Brush gently around the temporary crown, but be extra cautious when flossing. Instead of pulling the floss up between the teeth, slide it out gently to the side to prevent accidental removal of the crown.

Minimizing Stress on Your Temporary Crown

Avoid biting down hard or clenching your teeth. If you grind your teeth at night, we may recommend a night guard to further protect your temporary crown. Think of your jaw like a finely tuned instrument – avoid putting undue pressure on it.

Managing Sensitivity

Some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures is normal, especially in the first few days. Using a desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate this discomfort. If the sensitivity persists or worsens, please contact us.

Addressing Discomfort

If your temporary crown feels loose or comes off, please contact our office immediately. Do not attempt to re-cement it yourself. Store the crown in a safe place and schedule an appointment to have it re-attached.

Keeping Your Temporary Crown Clean

Rinse your mouth thoroughly after eating. This helps to remove food particles that could become trapped around the crown and lead to bacteria buildup. A saltwater rinse can also be soothing and help keep the area clean.

Avoiding Sticky Foods

Sticky candies, gum, and even some hard, crusty breads can dislodge your temporary crown. Opt for softer, less adhesive options during this period. Think of your temporary crown as a delicate piece of art – handle it with care!

Chewing Carefully

Distribute your chewing force evenly across your mouth. Avoid putting excessive pressure on the side with the temporary crown. This will help maintain its stability and prevent damage.

Being Mindful of Habits

Be aware of any habits you may have, such as chewing on pens or ice. These habits can put stress on your temporary crown and lead to its dislodgement.

Temporary Crown After Care: Potential Issues and Solutions

While temporary crowns are generally well-tolerated, some issues can arise. Understanding these potential complications and knowing how to address them can save you time and discomfort.

• Dislodged Temporary Crown
  A dislodged temporary crown can be unsettling, but it’s usually a straightforward fix. If your temporary crown comes off, please contact McLean Healthy Smiles immediately. Store the crown in a safe, clean container and bring it with you to your appointment. We will re-cement it securely. Do not attempt to re-attach the crown yourself, as this can lead to further complications.
• Sensitivity
  Some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is common after tooth preparation. This usually subsides within a few days. Using a desensitizing toothpaste can help manage the sensitivity. If the sensitivity is severe or persists, please contact us. We may recommend additional measures to alleviate your discomfort.
• Temporary Crown Breakage
  While rare, temporary crowns can sometimes break. If this happens, please contact our office immediately. We will assess the damage and determine the best course of action, which may involve repairing the crown or fabricating a new one.
• Soreness
  Some gum soreness around the prepared tooth is also normal. Rinsing with warm salt water can help soothe the area. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also be helpful. If the soreness is severe or doesn’t improve, please let us know.

Temporary Crown After Care: Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that you may have questions about your temporary crown. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers to provide further clarification:

How long will my temporary crown last?
Temporary crowns are designed to last for a few weeks, which is the typical timeframe for fabricating a permanent crown.

Can I eat anything with my temporary crown?
You should avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods while wearing a temporary crown. Stick to softer foods and avoid putting excessive pressure on the crown.

What should I do if my temporary crown comes off?
If your temporary crown comes off, contact McLean Healthy Smiles as soon as possible. Store the crown in a safe place and bring it with you to your appointment.

Is it normal to experience some sensitivity with a temporary crown?
Yes, some sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures is normal, especially in the first few days. This usually subsides. If the sensitivity is severe or persists, contact us.

How do I care for my temporary crown?
Brush and floss gently around the temporary crown. Avoid pulling the floss up; instead, slide it out to prevent dislodging the crown. Avoid sticky foods and excessive pressure on the crown.

Temporary Crown Aftercare at McLean Healthy Smiles

By following these temporary crown aftercare instructions, you can ensure a comfortable experience and contribute to the success of your permanent crown. At McLean Healthy Smiles, we’re committed to providing you and your family with the highest quality dental care.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. Your beautiful, healthy smile is our top priority!