Temporaries are designed to restore your teeth for a provisional or interim period of time. Although today's temporaries are significantly more lifelike and durable than those used previously, it is not uncommon for some people to experience problems with their temporaries.
Common concerns with temporaries include:
- Temporaries may have a rough feeling that can be irritating to your tongue.
- They fall out easily.
- The teeth with the temporaries are more sensitive to hot and cold.
- It is harder to chew.
- You are not pleased with how the temporaries look.
- Temporaries can cause bad breath if not properly cleaned.
CARING FOR YOUR TEMPORARIES
To experience as few problems as possible with your temporaries, please follow the care instructions below:
- Do not eat or drink anything hot for at least an hour after your temporaries are placed.
- Rinse with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a four-ounce glass) for a couple of days after placement of the temporary to help lessen gum sensitivity.
- Avoid sticky foods, such as caramel, taffy or gum, since these can dislodge the temporary.
- When brushing your teeth, use a soft bristle brush to gently massage gum tissue.
- Floss daily, but pull the floss through the sides of your teeth instead of pulling up.
- To avoid breaks, do not chew on hard substances, such as nuts, ice or pencils. If possible, chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- If you experience tenderness in the gum tissue and teeth, take a mild pain reliever and anti-inflammatory according to the directions. Call us immediately if the discomfort does not subside or worsens.