After Care for Temporary Restorations

Temporary veneers or crowns are made from an acrylic material, which is much less durable than your final porcelain restorations. They are lightly bonded to your teeth so they can be easily removed when your permanent restorations are ready.

Discoloration of Temporary Veneers or Crowns

It is normal for temporary veneers or crowns to slightly discolor or appear grey near the gumline over time. This occurs because the temporary material is more porous than your final ceramic restorations and can absorb stains or moisture.

This is only temporary and is not a cause for concern. However, if you notice significant darkening, loosening, or discomfort, please contact the office.

Sensitivity or Tenderness After Temporary Restorations

Local anesthetic, also known as freezing, may take several hours to fully wear off. During this time, avoid very hot, cold, or hard foods to prevent accidentally biting or irritating the area.

As the numbness fades, it is normal to experience some tooth sensitivity or gum tenderness for a few days following treatment. Discomfort can usually be managed with:

• Advil, Ibuprofen
• Tylenol, Acetaminophen

If you experience significant or persistent pain, please contact the office.

Your gums may also appear slightly red or swollen while wearing the temporaries. Warm salt water rinses can help soothe the area and reduce irritation.

Chipping or Loosening of Temporary Veneers or Crowns

If a temporary veneer or crown becomes chipped or loose, it will generally not harm the underlying tooth. Minor chips are common and often do not require treatment.

However, please contact our office if you experience:

• A sharp or rough edge
• Sensitivity
• Aesthetic concerns
• A completely loose temporary

Diet Recommendations for Temporary Veneers and Crowns

To help protect your temporary veneers or crowns:

• Avoid foods and spices that may stain, such as curry, turmeric, blueberries, kale, and similar foods.
• Coffee, tea, and wine are generally acceptable, as they create staining similar to natural teeth.
• Try to chew mainly with your back teeth and avoid biting directly with the front teeth whenever possible.

Foods to Avoid with Temporary Restorations

Avoid hard foods that may crack or chip the temporaries, including:

• Nuts
• Whole apples, cut into small pieces instead
• Raw carrots
• Hard toasted bread
• Chicken wings
• Ice

Sticky Foods to Avoid with Temporary Veneers or Crowns

Avoid sticky foods such as:

• Gum
• Gummy candies
• Toffee
• Caramel and other sticky candies

Oral Hygiene with Temporary Veneers or Crowns

Continue brushing your teeth normally, including the temporary veneers or crowns. If you are experiencing sensitivity, a toothpaste such as Sensodyne may be helpful.

Because temporary veneers and crowns are often connected together, flossing between them is not recommended, as this may loosen the temporaries. Please also avoid flossing directly beside the temporary restorations. Continue flossing all untreated areas as usual.

If your gums feel sore or irritated, you may rinse gently with warm salt water. Other mouth rinses will not damage the temporaries but may irritate already inflamed gums.

Questions About Temporary Veneers or Crowns

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your temporary veneers or crowns, please contact our office.