Patient Instructions
Brush and Floss
No one likes the twice annual lecture from their dentist or hygienist regarding the ills of poor oral hygiene particularly flossing. We really are not as plaque obsessed as we seem. The reason to remove plaque thoroughly from all surfaces at least once a day are fairly simple. Both decay and periodontal diseases are infections caused by a number of specific bacteria which live in the plaque deposits. Once removed it takes about twenty four hours for the bacteria to grow to pathologic (disease causing) levels. Brushing only allows these germs to thrive between the teeth, so flossing daily is imperative. The simple act of proper daily hygiene will prevent the majority of dental troubles in most people.
Protect Your Teeth
Dental protection includes the obvious, such as wearing mouth guards for sports. Less obvious ways to protect your teeth from trauma include always wearing a seatbelt, never use your teeth as tools, and wearing a night guard if bruxism is evident.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Sticking to prescribed recall periods is obviously important for the control of periodontal disease. However the regular check up is important as well, including x-rays. Almost all oral diseases are asymptomatic in their early stages; including periodontitis, gingivitis, decay, and oral cancer. In addition, these problems are much easier and less expensive to fix when caught early. A filling costs less than a root canal and crown, early non surgical treatment is cheaper and easier than gum surgery, and small oral cancers are easily cured whereas advanced lesions result in complex, disfiguring treatments
New Fillings
Sensitivity, especially to cold, is common for a few days following a dental restoration. If there are any high spots or rough spots or flossing problems please call us to adjust your filling right away.
The gum tissue could have been irritated during the procedure and may be sore for a few days together with the anesthetic injection site.
The finished restoration may be contoured slightly different and have a different texture than the original tooth. Your tongue usually magnifies this small difference, but you will become accustomed to this in a few days.
Children should be observed until the anesthetic wears off. Due to the strange feeling of the anesthetic, many children will chew the inside of their lips, cheeks or tongue, which can cause serious damage.
New Crowns and Bridges
Following the first appointment for a crown or bridge procedure, a temporary is usually placed on the teeth involved. This will protect them while the custom restoration is being made.
We use temporary cement for easy removal on your next visit. It is wise not to floss the temporary and avoid sticky food and gum to having the temporary come off too soon. Brushing is OK. If your temporary comes off between appointments, slip it back on and all us to have it re-cemented. If you cannot come in, denture adhesive works well as a temporary cement.
Many crowns fit below the gum line. Therefore, you may experience some discomfort for a few days due to the irritation of that area during the procedures. Sensitivity to cold or pressure is also possible for a few weeks
After the final cementation of your fixed restoration, it may take a few days to get used to the new crown or bridge. If you feel the bite is not correctly balanced, be sure and call for an appointment for a simple adjustment.
PHONE: 408.252.7980