Care and Instructions for Provisional Restorations

Brushing and Flossing with Provisional Restorations

● Brush thoroughly, three times a day, especially around the gum line, .
● Brushing and flossing vigorously will keep the tissue from bleeding on the day of cementation. Bleeding increases the chance that the restoration might need to be redone, and invites postoperative sensitivity, as well as recurrent decay and gum disease.
● Floss daily. Pull the floss out to the side, not up from between the teeth, because this may dislodge the provisional.
● Use an interdental brush between splinted provisional restorations,
● Thoroughly floss under all pontics (artificial teeth) each day, so they do not collect debris and odors.

Preventing Damage to Your Provisional Restorations

● Avoid sticky foods and chewing gum, because they will dislodge the provisional. Do not use toothpicks and interdental stimulators.
● Avoid chewing hard substances like candy, hard bread, tough meat or ice. These could break the provisional, or worse yet, the tooth.
● Bleaching solutions and some peroxide toothpastes can turn the provisional restoration an orange color. Don’t bleach and avoid peroxide toothpastes.

Managing Problems

● If a provisional comes out, loosens or breaks, please call us immediately. These occurrences can allow the tooth to drift, resulting in problems with the fit of the final restoration. Loose provisionals may require the case to be made over, and often result in root canal treatment.
● If you have any questions, problems or concerns, please call our office. Your dental well- being is our primary concern.