|
What can I expect with new filings,
veneers, and crowns:
It is normal to have some
sensitivity after having fillings, crown, or veneer work done. Teeth
are living tissue, and this tissue has been traumatized, just like a
cut or minor surgery elsewhere in your body. This may take weeks or
even months to fully recover. As a general rule: if the tooth is
getting better over time, then no need to worry. At any time if the
way you bite down does not feel right, please return to the office
so that we may correct your bite for you. A "heavy" or "high" bite
is usually the cause of continued sensitivity, that does not
improve.
What should I expect with temporary crowns,
veneers, and onlays?
As you wait for the lab to create
your new crown, veneer, or onlay, it is important to protect the
tooth with a temporary. This temporary is meant to be removed and
may occasionally fall off during normal function. Try to avoid heavy
chewing and hard or sticky foods with the temporary. If it does fall
off, it needs to be re-cemented on the tooth. We have given you
temporary cement in the event that this does occur.
First
clean the old cement from the internal surface of the temporary and
your tooth. Then, cut the top off the cement packet, and express the
two bubbles, in small, equal amounts on to a disposable mixing
surface (paper plate will work). Mix these parts thoroughly to a
consistent mixture, and apply liberally to the internal surface of
the temporary. Place immediately on tooth and press firmly. Make
sure you can bite completely down, then quickly brush the excess
material away with your tooth brush, and floss the cement from
between your teeth. Floss like regular, except pull the floss out
from the side to avoid pulling the temporary off.
Important note: all of this needs to occur within one
minute after mixing the cement. If you are unable to cement the
temporary, please call us so that we may place it for you. If the
office is closed, a small amount of denture adhesive from the
grocery store is a good short term fix until we can get you into the
office.
Do I have any restrictions to eating and
drinking after my new fillings and permanent crowns and veneers?
The only restriction would be if you leave the office
while your mouth is still numb, as you may bite your cheek or
tongue.
What were the instructions for the
medications you prescribed:
Generally, I give 2 types
of medications...antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Clindamycin) to control
infections, and pain medication (Vicodin, Tylenol 3, Darvocet).
Antibiotics should be started immediately and always completely
finish the entire bottle. The first day of antibiotics take all the
pills for that day right away. Generally, taking these with food
will alleviate upset stomachs.
When taking pain medication I
recommend starting before the numbness wears off. So, typically ASAP
after the procedure, whatever it may be. Take them continuously as
directed for the first few days (don't wait for the pain to return,
just take the pain medication according to the hourly schedule as
prescribed). This will make things much more comfortable for you.
After a few days of taking the pain medication continuously take
them as needed.
I just had a root canal procedure (endodontics),
now what?
The root canal is only the beginning. It is
extremely important that the tooth be properly restored to full
function. You will leave the office with a temporary filling. This
filling is not meant to last longer than a month. If the tooth is
not fitted with a permanent crown the tooth will become reinfected,
become painful again, and the time and money spent will be wasted.
Immediately after the root canal procedure it is normal to have some
sensitivity. The nerves inside your tooth have been removed, and
some residual discomfort is normal until your body heals this area.
As a general rule the tooth should get better over time. If the
tooth does not improve, or you have any swelling, please call the
office.
What were the instructions after having a
tooth extracted?
Some bleeding and oozing of the wound,
swelling, and pain is normal. Copious amounts of bright red blood or
large swelling is reason for concern. Call the office immediately.
Typically start taking your medications immediately, and always
finish the entire prescription of antibiotics. Pain medication
should be taken continuously according to the prescribed hourly
schedule for a few days. Do not wait for it to hurt before taking
the medication. Eat a soft diet. Keep the area as clean as this will
aid healing. Avoid smoking and alcohol as this will hinder healing.
Back to Top |
