Silver Fillings (Amalgams)
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Once placed, it takes almost two (2) weeks for your new filling to become fully hardened. You may, however, safely chew on it after twenty-four (24) hours. But, please, chew carefully!
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New silver fillings can be sensitive to hot and cold liquids and other foods for the first four to six weeks or in some circumstances, even longer. If the sensitivity should continue for an extended period of time or if the discomfort is extreme, call the dentist so that he can evaluate the situation and prescribe the appropriate therapy.
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Sometimes, due to the effects of the local anaesthesia, it is quite difficult to make sure that your bite is exactly right. If you feel any discomfort in chewing, call the dentist. A minor adjustment is usually all it takes to make you comfortable. Don't wait too long! Teeth can become quite sensitive if the bite is "high". You can generate in excess of 40,000 pounds per square inch when chewing on your back teeth. Fillings and other restorations which are "high" cannot stand this kind of pressure and may break.
White Fillings
We are constantly asked the same question, "When can I eat? Well, after placement, as long as you brought your own food and you share, you may chew right away. These fillings are instantly hardened by the light. Your teeth may experience some degree of temperature sensitivity for a few days to a week. If it does not disappear within that period of time, contact our surgery.
Crowns
Should you experience any discomfort you can take a mild analgesic (Paracetamol, Nurofen) as long as there are no medical contradictions based upon your medical history. Typically, you can take anything you would normally take for a headache. If the discomfort persists, please call our surgery.
Once the impression stage is completed, the dentist will place a temporary (transitional) crown (or bridge if multiple teeth were involved) on your tooth. These plastic (acrylic) restorations are placed on teeth to protect them and the gum tissues between dental visits. The temporary cementing medium used is designed to allow the easy removal of the temporary at your next scheduled visit.
There are a couple of additional facts you should know about regarding the care of your temporary crown:
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Home care is extremely important while your temporary crown is in place. The health of your gum tissue and the success of your final treatment restoration depend upon it. PLEASE do not be afraid to clean your teeth between visits. With a minimal amount of home care, you should be able to maintain the continued health of your teeth and gum tissue during the time required to fabricate your new crown.
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Sometimes, even with meticulous care, temporary crowns or bridges may become loose between visits. If this should occur, please place the temporary crown or bridge back on your tooth immediately. If possible putting a drop of Vaseline in the temporary crown or bridge will very often increase the retention and hold the temporary in place until you can schedule an appointment. Once again, REPLACING THE TEMPORARY CROWN IMMEDIATELY IS VERY IMPORTANT! It only takes a short time for teeth to move if the temporary is not put back into its proper position. This could affect the final restoration significantly and may necessitate new impressions and a great deal of time. If you can not replace the temporary crown yourself, put it in a safe place and call the office. We will be happy to re-cement it for you at the earliest possible time.
It is not unusual for the new crown to be mildly sensitive to cold temperatures for a few weeks. However, if the sensitivity is severe, does not subside, or if the bite feels uncomfortable, contact our surgery. Further adjustments to the crown may be necessary.
