Post Crown and Bridge Placement Instructions

* If you are too busy please read the text in bold and italics.

Now that your crown or bridge has been cemented there are a few things to expect and to care for. Initially, you may experience some sensitivity to cold as the tooth may be slightly irritated by the cement. Sensitivity toothpaste generally helps.
Also, if after a couple of days your “Bite” seems off or it just doesn’t feel normal, please call our office for a slight adjustment.
It is extremely important to maintain excellent oral hygiene with your new crown or bridge. Some people have the misconception that a crowned tooth no longer needs to be maintained. Crowns and bridges are still susceptible to decay near the gum-line the same as a natural tooth.
The crown strengthens the portion of the tooth above the gum-line but this margin area requires special care. Normal brushing and flossing is a must. Additional use of a fluoride rinse and a high fluoride content toothpaste or gel are excellent for preventing additional root decay. These additional aids are extremely important for a patient with a high decay rate and/or a history of periodontal disease.
Most all crowns and bridges have a ceramic outer layer or are all-ceramic. These materials are very strong and color stable, however, they still have the potential to fracture the same as a natural tooth. As a rule of thumb, don’t do anything with a crown or bridge that could damage a natural tooth.
Avoid Chewing Ice. The extreme temperature change greatly increases the fracture of porcelain and natural teeth.
Fixed bridges require addition cleaning under the pontic (Missing tooth). Since this “False tooth” is connected to the adjacent teeth a bridge threader is used to thread floss under it to remove plaque. These are readily available at most pharmacies.
We would be happy to demonstrate how to use them.

Post Crown and Bridge Placement Instructions

Now that your crown or bridge has been cemented there are a few things to expect and to care for. Initially, you may experience some sensitivity to cold as the tooth may be slightly irritated by the cement. Sensitivity toothpaste generally helps.

Also, if after a couple of days your “Bite” seems off or it just doesn’t feel normal, please call our office for a slight adjustment.

It is extremely important to maintain excellent oral hygiene with your new crown or bridge. Some people have the misconception that a crowned tooth no longer needs to be maintained. Crowns and bridges are still susceptible to decay near the gum-line the same as a natural tooth.

Avoid Chewing Ice. The extreme temperature change greatly increases the fracture of porcelain and natural teeth.

Fixed bridges require addition cleaning under the pontic (Missing tooth). Since this “False tooth” is connected to the adjacent teeth a bridge threader is used to thread floss under it to remove plaque. These are readily available at most pharmacies.

We would be happy to demonstrate how to use them.