Post-Operative Instructions: Crowns & Bridges

Crowns and bridges typically require two to three appointments to complete. During the first visit, the teeth are prepared and temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect the teeth while your custom restoration is being made.

If anesthetic is used, your lips, tongue, teeth, and cheek may be numb for several hours after your appointment. Avoid chewing until numbness has completely worn off to prevent accidental injury.

Temporary restorations are essential for protecting your teeth and ensuring proper fit of your final crown or bridge.

·  It is not uncommon for a temporary crown or bridge to feel different from your natural teeth.

·  On rare occasions, a temporary crown or bridge may come off.

If this happens:

·  Please call our office immediately

·  Keep the temporary so it can be re-cemented

·  Do not attempt to glue it back yourself

Keeping the temporary in place is very important for the success of your final restoration.

·  Sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is normal after each appointment.

·  Gum tissue may feel sore or irritated for several days.

To reduce discomfort:

·  Rinse three times daily with warm salt water

(1 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water — rinse, swish, and spit)

·  Take medication as directed

To help protect your temporary restoration:

·  Avoid sticky foods (especially gum)

·  Avoid hard or crunchy foods

·  If possible, chew on the opposite side of your mouth

·  Continue brushing normally.

·  Floss very carefully around temporary crowns or bridges.

·  When flossing, slide the floss out from the side rather than lifting it upward to avoid pulling the temporary off.

·  Do not chew sticky foods (gum, caramel, taffy)

·  Do not bite hard foods or objects

·  Do not chew while numb

·  Do not pull floss upward around temporary crowns

·  Do not ignore a loose or missing temporary crown or bridge

·  Do not attempt to glue a temporary back on yourself

Please contact us if you experience:

·  A loose or missing temporary crown or bridge

·  Increasing or persistent pain

·  Sensitivity that does not improve

·  Bite discomfort or pressure when chewing

© 2025 John E. Sullivan DDS, P.C.

This document is the property of John E. Sullivan DDS, P.C. and is intended for use within this practice only.