Home Care for Crowns and Bridges

• Following the first appointment for a crown or a bridge procedure, a temporary crown is placed on the tooth or the teeth involved. This will protect them while your custom restoration is being made.
  
• Temporary crowns are of a universal size and shade and they serve a cosmetic function for front teeth. In addition, temporary crown or bridge will help prevent the adjacent teeth from shifting, ensuring that your final custom-crafted crown or bridge will fit. Temporary cement will be used to hold the restoration in place.
  
• These temporary crowns are designed to function adequately for a period of 2 to 4 weeks only.
  
• Avoid chewing in the area of the temporary crown. Since most people tend to forget this, the next best thing to do is to watch what you eat. Don't eat anything sticky that can pull your temporary crown off.
  
• The use of temporary cement on your temporary crown is for easy removal on your next appointment. If your temporary crown comes off between appointments, slip it back on and call the office immediately. You may want to put a very small amount of Vaseline around the edges of the temporary prior to reseating it. It is extremely important that you have the temporary crown on at all times. Being without your temporary crown may allow the tooth to shift and prevent the permanent crown from fitting properly.
  
• Many crowns fit between the gum lines. Therefore, you may experience some discomfort for a few days due to the irritation of that area. Sensitivity to cold and pressure are also possible.
  
• After the final cementation of your fixed restoration, it may take a few days to get used to your new crown or bridge. If you feel your bite is not correctly balanced, be sure to call for an appointment for a simple adjustment.
  
• Proper brushing and flossing is recommended to help you retain your final restoration.