The Burgess Center for Cosmetic Dentistry

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What to expect:

  • Temporary bridges are made of plastic and thus are usually bulkier (for added strength) and less smooth than your final, custom-made bridge.
  • A slight discoloration of the temporary bridge may occur over time due to the plastic absorbing coffee, tea, pasta sauces, etc. Your final bridge will not discolor in this manner.
  • The temporary bridge will help protect your tooth from sensitivity. However, since the temporary bridge does not fit your tooth like the final bridge, some sensitivity to heat, cold, and sweets may occur.
  • Temporary cement requires about 30 minutes to completely harden. Please do not chew during this period.
  • Certain foods will stick to the temporary bridge and could possibly pull it off the teeth. Please refrain from chewing gum, candies, or foods that may stick to the crown.
  • Also, temporary bridges are not very strong and occasionally may break or come out. We always provide you with a take-home package of temporary cement. Simply clean out any white cement on the inside of your bridge with a safety pin, mix the cement, lightly coat the inside of the bridge, and place back on your teeth. If you do not have any cement, Fixodent from the drug store will work as cement.
  • Please do not leave the temporary bridge out of your mouth. Teeth can move and shift very quickly. Your final bridge may not fit and would then have to be remade at an additional cost.
  • Finally, please use caution while brushing or flossing around the temporary bridge. Gently brush and floss towards your gums, then pull the floss out sideways. It is very important that you concentrate on keeping the temporary bridge clean, especially under the replaced tooth, or your gums may become infected and bleed.

Please call us if:

  • You are experiencing any symptoms more intense than described above.
  • The temporary bridge is broken, unable to be recemented, or feels too high when you bite.
  • There are any questions or concerns that you may have. We are ALWAYS here for you!
 

 

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© 2005 The Burgess Center for Cosmetic Dentistry