After Cosmetic Dental Reconstruction

Remember that it will take time to adjust to the feel of your new bite. When the bite is altered or the position of the teeth is changed, it takes several days for the brain to recognize the new position or thickness as normal. If you continue to detect any high spots or problems with your bite, call McMinn Dental Center at 423-745-5212 so we can schedule an adjustment appointment.

It is normal to experience some hot and cold sensitivity. Your teeth require time to heal after the removal of tooth structure. Your gums may also be sore for a few days. Warm salt water rinses (one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) three times a day will reduce pain and swelling. A mild pain medication, such as one tablet of Tylenol or Ibuprofen every 3-4 hours, should ease any residual discomfort.

Do not be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days; you will quickly adapt. You may also notice increased salivation as your brain responds to the new shape of your teeth. This should subside within a week. Daily brushing and flossing are a must, as plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your new dental work. Avoid hard foods, sticky candies, and substances that can crack or stain your new teeth, such as coffee, red wine, or tobacco.

After Crown And Bridge Appointments

Dental crowns and bridges usually take two or three appointments to complete. During the first visit, the teeth are prepared and molds are taken. Temporary restorations are placed to protect your teeth while the custom version is crafted. Since the area will be anesthetized, please refrain from eating or drinking hot beverages until the numbness has completely worn off to avoid injury.

If a temporary crown comes off, call the McMinn Team at 423-745-5212 so we can re-cement it. It is vital for the temporary to stay in place to prevent other teeth from moving. To keep temporaries secure, avoid sticky or hard foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Brush normally, but pull floss out from the side rather than upward to avoid dislodging the temporary.

It is normal to experience some temperature and pressure sensitivity after each appointment. This should subside a few weeks after the final restoration is placed. If your bite feels uneven or if you have persistent pain, please contact McMinn Dental Center.

After Tooth Extraction

After a tooth extraction, it is important for a blood clot to form to stop bleeding and begin the healing process. Bite on a gauze pad for 30-45 minutes after your appointment. If bleeding persists, place a fresh gauze pad and bite firmly for another 30 minutes.

Once the clot forms, do not disturb it. For the next 72 hours, avoid rinsing vigorously, using straws, smoking, drinking alcohol, or brushing the teeth next to the extraction site. Limit vigorous exercise for 24 hours to keep your blood pressure stable. You may experience some swelling, which can be minimized by applying an ice pack for the first 48 hours.

Take all prescribed medications as directed by the McMinn Team. If antibiotics were issued, finish the entire course even if symptoms disappear. Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious soft foods on the day of the extraction. You may resume a normal dental routine after 24 hours. If you experience heavy bleeding, severe pain, or a reaction to medication, call our office immediately at 423-745-5212.

After Composite Fillings (White Fillings)

When an anesthetic is used, your lips and tongue may be numb for several hours. Avoid chewing or drinking hot liquids until the numbness has worn off to prevent biting or burning yourself.

It is normal to feel some sensitivity to heat, cold, and pressure after your appointment. Injection sites may also be sore. Mild over-the-counter pain relievers usually alleviate this tenderness. If pressure sensitivity persists beyond a few days, please contact McMinn Dental Center.

You may chew with your composite fillings as soon as the anesthetic wears off, as they are fully set before you leave our office. If your bite feels uneven or you have any concerns, the McMinn Team is here to help.