933 S Sunset Ave, Suite 203 West Covina, CA 91790Phone: (626) 962-5415Email: moc.sddoakeidde%40ofniBusiness Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 10 AM - 6 PM | Saturday: By appointment only

17502 Irvine Blvd., Suite E, Tustin, CA 92780Phone: (714) 598-1488Email: moc.liamg%40latnedke.ofniBusiness Hours: Monday - Saturday (By appointment only)

933 S Sunset Ave, Suite 203 West Covina, CA 91790Phone: (626) 962-5415Email: moc.sddoakeidde%40ofniBusiness Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 10 AM - 6 PM | Saturday: By appointment only

17502 Irvine Blvd., Suite E, Tustin, CA 92780Phone: (714) 598-1488Email: moc.liamg%40latnedke.ofniBusiness Hours: Monday - Saturday (By appointment only)

Home > Patient Education > Home Care Instructions

Home Care Instructions

Cosmetic Dentistry in West Covina, CA

Smile Makeover in West Covina, CA

After Cosmetic 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 of your teeth or their thickness as normal. If you continue to detect any high spots or problems with your bite, call our office at (626) 962-5415 so we can schedule an adjustment appointment.

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

Don't be concerned if your speech is affected for the first few days. You'll quickly adapt and speak normally. You may notice increased salivation. This is because your brain is responding to the new size and shape of your teeth. This should subside to normal in about a week.

Daily brushing and flossing are a must for your new dental work. Daily plaque removal is critical for the long-term success of your new teeth, as are regular cleaning appointments.

Any food that can crack, chip, or damage a natural tooth can do the same to your new teeth. Avoid hard foods and substances (such as beer nuts, peanut brittle, ice, fingernails, or pencils) and sticky candies. Smoking will stain your new teeth. Minimize or avoid foods that stain, such as coffee, red wine, tea, and berries.

If you engage in sports, let us know so we can make a custom mouthguard. If you grind your teeth at night, wear the night guard we have provided for you. Adjusting to the look and feel of your new smile will take time. If you have any problems or concerns, please let us know. We always welcome your questions.

After Crown and Bridge Appointments

Crowns and bridges usually take two or three appointments to complete. In the first visit, the teeth are prepared, and molds of the mouth are taken. Temporary crowns or bridges are placed to protect the teeth while the custom restoration is being made. Since the teeth will be anesthetized, the tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth may be numb. Please refrain from eating and drinking hot beverages until the numbness is completely worn off.

Occasionally a temporary crown may come off. Call us at (626) 962-5415 if this happens, and bring the temporary crown with you so we can re-cement it. It is very important for the temporary to stay in place, as it will prevent other teeth from moving and compromise the fit of your final restoration.

Dental Crowns & Bridges in West Covina, CA

To keep your temporaries in place, avoid eating sticky foods (gum) and hard foods, and if possible, chew on the opposite side of your mouth. It is important to brush normally, but floss carefully and don't pull up on the floss, which may dislodge the temporary but pull the floss out from the side of the temporary crown.

It is normal to experience some temperature and pressure sensitivity after each appointment. The sensitivity should subside a few weeks after the placement of the final restoration. Mild pain medications may also be used as directed by our office.

If your bite feels uneven, if you have persistent pain, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please call our office at (626) 962-5415.

Schedule your dental appointment today!

Dr. Kao and our friendly staff are dedicated to making every visit to our dental office a great experience. We provide expert dental care with a personal touch in a comfortable setting.