After Care Instructions

Fillings

After your filling appointment, you may eat, drink, brush and floss as normal unless directed otherwise by Dr Barnes.  Be careful to avoid biting yourself while numb!

It is normal for your teeth to be sensitive to cold for the first few weeks.  This usually subsides.

If you have any other problems or questions, contact our office.

Temporary Crowns

Many patients ask, “Why the temporary crown?” They serve three main functions:

1. To insulate and protect the tooth structure to prevent sensitivity

2. To maintain the space between the teeth

3. To provide some esthetics

Caution and care must be given to this fragile “temporary” and its temporary cementation: Avoid hard, sticky, chewy foods on the entire side of the temporary, also avoid vigorous brushing and DO NOT FLOSS.

Frequent rinses with warm salt water solution (1/2 tsp. salt to 8oz. warm water) are recommended to help heal the tender tissues surrounding the preparation. Should your temp(s) become loose, dislodged, or fractured please call our office for a short appointment to have it re-cemented or remade.

DO NOT use household glues of any short!

DO NOT allow the temporary crown to remain off for any duration.

Should your temp(s) come off after hours:

YOU CAN use petroleum jelly, tooth paste, or denture adhesive until you are able to come to the office. Use these helpful hints to ensure that your permanent crown(s) fit accurately at your crown seating appointment.

Root Canal Treatment

After treatment, your tooth may still be sensitive, but this will subside as the inflammation diminishes and the tooth has healed.  Please contact our office if you have any other problems or questions.

Dentures and Partial Dentures

Your denture or partial should be taken out every night to give the underlying tissues a chance to rest. Dentures may lose their shape if they are allowed to dry out. When they are not worn, dentures should be placed in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in water. Never place dentures in hot water, which could cause them to warp.

Your denture or partial should be cleaned daily. Dentures and partials are very delicate and may break if dropped even a few inches. Stand over a folded towel or a basin of water when handling dentures. Like natural teeth, dentures and partials must be brushed daily to remove food deposits and plaque. Brushing helps prevent dentures and partials from becoming permanently stained and helps your mouth stay healthy. It’s best to use a brush designed for cleaning dentures. A toothbrush with soft bristles can also be used. Avoid using hard-bristled brushes that can damage dentures and partials.

Some denture wearers use hand soap or mild dishwashing liquid, which are both acceptable for cleaning dentures. You can also use a commercial denture and partial cleaner.  Avoid using other powdered household cleansers, which may be too abrasive. Also, avoid using bleach, as this may whiten the pink portion of the denture.