Once you have received a temporary bridge, it is necessary to follow the instructions of your Houston cosmetic dentist in order to ensure the best success of your tooth restoration.

• Do not drink hot drinks while your mouth is numb because this may burn your skin.
• For the next few days after receiving your temporary bridge, take a mild analgesic with the approval of your Houston cosmetic dentist.
• It will help reduce swelling in your mouth if you rinse out your mouth with warm salt water. Use one tablespoon of salt with 8 ounces of water.
• Keep the area around your temporary bridge clean. This will help maintain compatibility with mouth tissue and the new prosthesis.
• Rinse your mouth once or twice daily with an antibacterial, alcohol free mouthwash like Breath Rx™
• Do not eat anything with curry because it may turn your temporary bridge yellow or orange.
• Do not smoke if you can help it because this can also stain your temporary.

Chewing
First of all, avoid chewing for ½ hour to let the cement set in place. After this, be very careful about what you chew and when you chew. Until the anesthetic completely wears off, you may risk biting your lip or cheek if you are not careful. Eat only soft foods until the numbness is completely gone. Avoid hard candy and sticky foods and do not chew gum. Use the side of your mouth opposite the bridge as much as possible.

Brushing and flossing
Brush as normal, but be very careful when you floss. You should brush your teeth and your temporary bridge at least twice a day. Be sure to brush all around the temporary. We may give you special brushes and flosses to take home with you. If we do; use only these until otherwise directed.

If your teeth hurt or feel sensitive to temperature, use desensitizing toothpaste. Call us if sensitivity persists after trying this.

Medication and Discomfort
Take whatever medication we prescribe along with your temporary bridge. If you take any over-the-counter medication, talk to us first about its use.

When to Call Us
If your bridge becomes loose, do not attempt to put it back in your mouth yourself. It is very important that it be refitted properly in order to ensure the proper fit of your final bridge.

Call us immediately and come in so we can referent it. Also, call our office if your bite feels uneven, if you feel pain, sensitivity, or persistent discomfort.

Our staff will also answer any questions you email us or call us with.

Do not be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days after receiving your temporary. In no time at all, you will adapt and be speaking normally. It is also normal for you to experience increased salivation. This is because your brain is getting used to the size and shape of your bridge. Normal rates of salivation should return in about a week.

Labels: temporary bridges