After Cosmetic Reconstruction
Adjusting to your new bite and dental structure may take some time. It's normal for your brain to need a few days to recognize the changes in tooth position or thickness. If you notice any discomfort or high spots in your bite, please contact the Orchid Dental Care Office at 408-395-8888, and we'll schedule an adjustment appointment.
You may experience sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, as well as soreness in your gums, following cosmetic reconstruction. To alleviate pain and swelling, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times a day. Additionally, over-the-counter pain medication like Tylenol or Ibuprofen can help manage any residual discomfort.
Temporary changes in speech and increased salivation are common initially and should normalize within a week. Maintain optimal oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily and attending regular cleaning appointments for the long-term success of your dental work.
Avoid hard foods, sticky candies, and substances that can damage your teeth, including smoking, as it can stain your new dental work. Inform us if you participate in sports, so we can provide a custom mouthguard; or if you grind your teeth at night, we can provide a night guard you can use.
Adapting to your new smile may take time, but we're here to address any concerns or questions you may have.
After Dental Crown and Dental Bridge Appointments
Dental crown and bridge procedures typically require multiple appointments. Following the initial visit where teeth are prepared and impressions taken, temporary restorations are placed to protect your teeth during fabrication of the permanent ones.
If a temporary crown becomes dislodged, please contact us immediately at the Orchid Dental Care Office at 408-395-8888. It's crucial to keep the temporary in place to prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
To minimize discomfort and maintain temporary restorations, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, brush carefully, and avoid pulling up on floss, which may dislodge the temporary crown.
Some sensitivity to temperature and pressure is normal and should subside after the final restoration is placed. If you experience persistent pain or uneven bite, please don't hesitate to reach out.
After Tooth Extraction
Following a tooth extraction, it's essential to allow a blood clot to form to aid healing. Bite on a gauze pad for 30 to 45 minutes after the procedure and repeat if bleeding persists. Avoid activities like rinsing vigorously, smoking, or using straws, which can dislodge the clot and hinder healing.
Manage pain and swelling with ice packs and pain medication as prescribed. Resume your normal dental routine after 24 hours, including brushing and flossing, to promote healing.
If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or continued swelling, contact us immediately.
After Composite Fillings (White Fillings)
Following composite fillings, avoid chewing or consuming hot beverages until numbness subsides. It's common to experience sensitivity to hot, cold, and pressure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
You can resume chewing with composite fillings once the numbness wears off completely. If you notice any irregularities in your bite, experience ongoing discomfort, or have any questions or concerns, please contact our office at 408-395-8888.