1. What to Expect After Your Appointment

Mild sensitivity and tenderness are completely normal after receiving a temporary crown.

• You may notice sensitivity to temperature so avoid very cold or hot foods and drinks like ice water, ice cream, hot coffee, or tea.
• You might also feel discomfort when biting down. This usually improves within a few days as your tooth adjusts and heals.
• To minimize irritation, try to avoid chewing on the crowned side of your mouth for the first several days.

These sensations are part of the natural healing process and should gradually subside as your tooth adapts.

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2. Be Mindful of What You Eat

Your temporary crown is held in place with a gentle, temporary cement that can loosen if exposed to too much pressure or sticky foods.
Avoid:

• Sticky foods like gum, taffy, caramel, and gummy candies.
• Hard foods that could dislodge or crack the temporary, such as nuts or hard bread.
• Chewing directly on the crowned tooth, especially during the first week.

Soft foods are best during the first few days and remember to chew on the opposite side whenever possible.

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3. Keep Your Temporary Clean

Cleanliness around the temporary crown is essential for proper gum healing and a perfect fit for your permanent restoration.

• Brush twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Floss carefully using a sliding motion:
  • Place the floss gently between your teeth.
  • Slide the floss out through the side, rather than pulling it up and down, to avoid loosening the temporary.
• Rinse with a mild mouthwash if recommended by Dr. Timin to reduce bacteria and inflammation.

Keeping your gums healthy ensures that your final crown will seat properly and comfortably.

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4. If Your Temporary Comes Off

It’s very important to keep your temporary crown in place until your next appointment. The temporary protects your tooth and maintains the space needed for your permanent crown.
If it comes off:

1. Try to place it back on the tooth immediately if possible.
2. This helps reduce sensitivity and keeps surrounding teeth from shifting.
3. Contact our office right away and we’ll schedule you to come in as soon as possible to re-cement your temporary.

Do not attempt to glue it yourself with household adhesives. We’ll make sure it’s properly secured and adjusted for comfort.

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5. Continue Routine Dental Care

Even though your crown is temporary, your oral hygiene routine remains essential:

• Brush gently but thoroughly around the temporary area.
• Rinse after meals to remove debris.
• Keep up with any check-ins or follow-up visits recommended by Dr. Timin.

Staying consistent with your hygiene routine will support gum health and help ensure your permanent crown fits seamlessly.