Root Canal Therapy
You can expect soreness after a root canal procedure for a 4-5 days. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed so you do not further irritate the area. Please refrain from eating harder substances which may cause your tooth to fracture until you are able to get a crown placed on your tooth. If you notice an increasing amount of pain or tenderness, a reaction to any medications, or the loss of the temporary filling, please call us at 814-234-4444.
Crowns and Bridges
Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary. You may waterpik the area.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol as needed.
When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let us know, as Dr. Detar may need to adjust your bite. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. You should brush, floss, and waterpik regularly.
Veneers
Before you receive your permanent veneer, you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary.
There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent is placed. This is normal and will subside after the soft tissue heals. Warm salt water rinses will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if the pain does not go away.
When the veneer is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth, and it should feel like one of your natural teeth in less than a week. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let Dr. Detar know so that she can make any necessary adjustments. If you were given a nightguard, please make sure to follow your instructions for wear.
White Fillings
After the anesthesia wears off your teeth may be sensitive. Most cold sensitivity will resolve within a week or two. If your bite feels abnormal in any way, please let us know so that Dr. Detar can adjust it. Adjustments do not require Novocain, only take a few minutes, and often improve the sensitivity in your tooth within few days to a few weeks. After that initial period, your treated teeth will feel as good as new. Continue your normal hygiene plan to ensure that your fillings last for as long as possible.
Scaling and Root Planing
After this procedure your gums will probably be slightly sore and irritated for a few days. You should rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/4 tsp salt in 8 oz water) 2-3 times a day. This will relieve the pain and cleanse the area. Brushing, flossing, and waterpiking should be continued right after the procedure. If you experience any swelling or stiffness in the area you can place a cold compress on the area and take Tylenol or Advil as needed. Avoid any hard or chewy foods for 2-3 days after the deep scaling and root planing to ensure the area heals correctly. If you continue to experience pain or swelling after a few days contact us.