Going to the dentist isn't any fun, but it is one of those things that just has to be done. For years, I fought the process and didn't go for my regular cleanings and in the end, it sure didn't pay to do so. I ended up spending ten times as much time in the chair and a boat-load of money in dental repairs. If you don't like going to the dentist, you can make it easier on yourself. This blog will show you a few tips that can help you improve the experience and get through the treatment without as much discomfort.
going to the dentist with less anxiety
Tips For Caring For Your Newly Installed Dental Crown
Jordan Arnold
Two of the most common dental procedures performed by dentists today are filling cavities and installing crowns. While fillings are an excellent solution for teeth with minor decay, dental crowns become necessary for teeth where there is too much decay to remove and still leave behind a stable enough tooth to fill.
Whether you have a temporary crown installed while your permanent crown is still being custom-made or if you just had your permanent crown installed, follow each of these important tips to ensure your comfort and protect your new dental appliance from damage.
Tip: Be Very Careful if You Choose to Eat or Drink Anything Before the Anesthetic Wears Off
It will be a few hours after you leave the dental office before the anesthetic used in your mouth will completely wear off. Since you may not be able to feel things as well as you think, it's important to avoid eating or drinking anything that is too hot and could burn you. It's also important not to chew anything until you have completely regained feeling or you might accidentally bite your lip, cheek, or tongue.
In addition, dentists often recommend only consuming soft foods for the first day after a dental crown is installed in order to give the glue used to cement it in place ample time to dry and cure. If you chew on something hard before the glue is cured, it could cause the crown to move. Crowns that move need to be removed and replaced or they will greatly affect the comfort of your bite.
Tip: Use Saltwater Rinses to Stave Off Both Infections and Pain
When it comes to dental problems, nothing works better to improve things than some warm saltwater. It's great for staving off infections and it is also great for dental pain. So, if you fear you might get an infection or if you are in pain, then mix up a warm cup of saltwater and rinse your mouth with it.
Tip: Fix a Detached Crown with the Temporary Adhesive Designed for Dentures
If your temporary or permanent dental crown happens to come loose or fall out, then you should put it back in place and attach it with a temporary dental adhesive sold for keeping dentures in place. You should never use a product like Super Glue because it is toxic and can make it hard for your dentist to remove the crown and reattach it with the correct adhesive.
Finally, after you have glued the crown back in place, call your dentist's office for an emergency appointment for a more permanent solution.
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