Congratulations. You are on your way to a beautiful new smile. During the next several weeks, while you are wearing temporaries, you may have some questions. Hopefully, this information will give you all the answers, but if not, don’t hesitate to call.

The evening following your appointment and several days after, take ibuprofen if you have discomfort. It helps to reduce inflammation. It is normal to feel sensitivity to temperature after your appointment. If the sensitivity persists or becomes worse, call.

You may notice some gum tissue changes after your appointment. It is normal for your gum tissues to turn whitish or slough off in the areas that I have treated. Simply do the best brushing until the irritation clears.

Your lips may feel very dry and could crack at the corners. This is due to the dryness of your mouth and lips during the procedure. You should vigilantly use your regular lip moisturizer. If attached, use the prescriptions on your lips and at the corners of your mouth, if necessary, to aid in lubrication and healing.

The temporary crowns or veneers are fragile and will not be as strong as the permanent crowns or veneers. Try to eat with a knife and fork, rather than biting things with your front teeth. If one is broken or becomes dislodged, please call me to schedule an appointment to have it replaced.

You will not be able to floss the temporary teeth, but in order to keep the gum tissue healthy, it is important to brush vigorously around the temporaries. Rinsing with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8oz glass of water) can also be helpful to cleanse the area and aid the healing of irritated gum tissue.

Anesthetic affects the feeling of your bite. If your bite does not feel balanced and even, once the dental anesthetic has worn off, please call me for an adjustment. A balanced bite is very important. High bites lead to pain and sensitivity.

Remember, no question is too small and we are just a phone call away: (301) 530-2434.