Post-Operative Instructions for Temporary Dental Crown(s)
Congratulations on your new temporary dental crown! To ensure optimal healing and long-term success, it's important to follow these post-operative instructions carefully. The temporary crown serves as a temporary restoration until your permanent crown is ready to be placed. Please keep in mind the following expectations and guidelines:
Oral Hygiene:
- Brush your teeth gently twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be cautious around the temporary crown, avoiding excessive pressure or pulling-up motions. Consider a manual toothbrush versus a powered one due to the vibrations.
- Avoid flossing in the area of restoration. If needed, floss down and pull thread through. Avoid floss picks.
There are several types of rinses that may have been discussed and they are all acceptable.
- A mild saltwater solution (1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water) after meals to keep the area clean.
- Prescription Chlorhexidine Gluconate Rinse if surgery was involved.
- If you had several crowns (3+) completed you can also take a 12 oz water bottle and do thirds of water, hydrogen peroxide, mouthwash and 1 drop of colorless dawn dish soap mix well. Rinse several times a day especially after brushing and eating.
Eating and Drinking:
- Avoid eating hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could dislodge or damage the temporary crown.
- Opt for softer foods during the temporary crown phase. Examples include soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, pasta and soft fruits.
- Avoid biting directly into foods with the temporary crown. Instead, use the side of your mouth that is unaffected to chew and cut foods with a knife and fork.
- Refrain from consuming excessively hot or cold foods and beverages, as they can cause sensitivity.
Discomfort and Sensitivity:
- It is normal to experience sensitivity and discomfort around the temporary crown site. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken as directed to alleviate discomfort.
- If you notice persistent or increasing pain, sensitivity, swelling or disturbances in sleep please contact your dentist for further evaluation.
Temporary Crown Maintenance:
- Avoid touching or playing with the temporary crown, as it is not as durable as the permanent crown.
- If the temporary crown feels loose or comes off and you are unable to get into the dentist for more than a few days you can attempt to put it back on but the tooth may be sensitive before, during and after your attempt. Follow these instructions:
- Carefully clean the temporary cement out of the crown using a small instrument. Once everything is removed try it on the tooth and close gently to ensure your bite feels comfortable and normal. Then you can use toothpaste, denture cream or temporary cement (best but most difficult) from the drugstore of your choice. Be sure to dry the tooth, place a small amount of material of your choice and gently bite down until the bite feels comfortable. Clean any excess that you can see and feel. Grab a buddy and have them hold the crown down and floss and drag so you can dislodge any excess material between the teeth. We understand this won’t be perfect but it is better than nothing.
- You can also contact your dentist to have the temporary crown recemented.
- Be cautious when flossing around the temporary crown. Slide the floss out gently, rather than lifting it, to prevent dislodging the crown.
Follow-up Appointment:
- Keep your scheduled appointment with your dentist for the placement of the permanent crown. This is typically scheduled a few weeks after the temporary crown is placed.
- During this appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be carefully placed and adjusted for fit and comfort.
- Communicate any concerns or questions you may have with your dentist during the follow-up appointment.
Remember, the temporary crown is designed to provide protection and aesthetics while your permanent crown is being fabricated. By following these instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene, you will support the success of your dental treatment. If you have any additional questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to our office for guidance.
Wishing you a successful and comfortable dental crown experience!