Fillings, Crowns and Bridges For Your Teeth
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:
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.
Sometimes, even with meticulous care, temporary crowns or bridges may become loose between visits. If this should occur contact us for advice
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.
Dental Filling, Crowns, And Bridges At A Glance
| Patient Question | Treatment at a Glance |
|---|---|
| What are the options? | A filling repairs a smaller damaged area. A crown covers and protects a weakened tooth. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by using neighbouring teeth or implants for support. |
| Who might they suit? | The right option depends on how much healthy tooth remains, where the tooth sits, your bite and whether a tooth is missing. Our dentist will talk through suitable alternatives. |
| What affects the cost? | Cost can change with the number of teeth, the material used, laboratory work, scans or X-rays, and whether the tooth needs other treatment first. |
| How many visits are typical? | Many fillings can be completed in one visit. Crowns and bridges may need one or more visits depending on the material and how the restoration is made. |
| What is recovery usually like? | Your mouth may stay numb for a while. Mild sensitivity can occur, particularly after a deeper filling or preparation for a crown. |
| How should I look after it? | Brush and clean between the teeth carefully. If you have a temporary crown or bridge, follow our dentist’s eating and cleaning advice until the final restoration is fitted. |
| What do patients often ask? | “Which option will last longest?” Longevity varies with the tooth, material, bite, cleaning habits and regular dental care. We can explain the trade-offs for your tooth. |
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We look forward to caring for your dental health.