It is essential that the teeth and involved areas
are kept as clean as possible. This can best be accomplished
through the use of warm salt-water rinses after each
meal (snacks, too)! An 8 oz. glass of warm water mixed
with a teaspoon of salt should do the trick; a little
hydrogen peroxide in the mixture wouldn't be a bad
idea, either. The use of a soft toothbrush with or
without toothpaste can be effective; warm water should
be used to moisten the toothbrush.
Some discomfort can be expected, both in the teeth
and the adjacent tissues, especially where the injections
were made. Some relief can best be achieved through
the use of an Advil-like medication - assuming you
have no allergies to this type of medication. It is
generally more effective than Tylenol-like medications,
as Advil and similar medications help control both
pain and inflammation. It is important that it is
taken before significant discomfort occurs and is
taken on a fairly regular basis. We welcome any questions
you might have relative to this explanation.
Discoloration of the gum tissue adjacent to the teeth
may also occur; when it does, it is generally dark
in color. Once again, the use of warm salt water with
a little hydrogen peroxide is an effective treatment.
The tissue where the injections were placed also may
discolor and swell; this is due both to the amount
of anesthetic used as well as the stretching of the
lips that occurs when the teeth are being prepared
and impressions are being taken. This swelling usually
goes down within a few hours or days. Persistent swelling
must be attended to and our office contacted should
this occur.
"And
what about eating?" you ask. We suggest a soft diet
during the time you have temporaries in your mouth.
This may include foods like macaroni, eggs, oatmeal,
etc. (not exactly on the low-carb diet!) Fruits may
be enjoyed if placed and chewed in the back part of
the mouth, in the molar areas if possible. Liquids
are acceptable, though you may want to keep them at
room-temperature and above. Cold liquids, and cold
foods, for that matter, may make your teeth very sensitive;
use your discretion as to what you can and cannot
tolerate.
A few words about temporary crowns and/or veneers
might be helpful. They are generally placed with a
temporary cement or bonded with another temporary
material. If they come off - one or more - you may
be able to place them back on the teeth. If it will
not stay, the use of a denture adhesive, like Super
Poly-Grip, may be put into the restoration and the
temporary replaced. In any case, our office should
be called so that we may help you, over the phone
or in our office. In any case, save the temporary
so that it may be reused; pill containers are effective
carrying cases.
Most importantly, if you have any questions or concerns
regarding your treatment, please call us at the office.
ContactDr. Robert Karl Jr. for an appointment today!
