Use desensitizing toothpaste
Take medication as directed
Rinse with salt water

Homecare - Permanent Onlays

How to care for a permanent onlay

Now that we've placed your permanent onlay, it's important to follow these recommendations to ensure its success:

Chewing and eating

To protect your onlay, avoid chewing ice or other hard objects.

If we used an anesthetic during the procedure, avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

Brushing and flossing

If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure, use desensitizing toothpaste. If sensitivity persists beyond a few days, call us.

When to call us

Call our office if your bite feels uneven, you have persistent sensitivity or discomfort, or if you have any questions or concerns.

Medication and discomfort

Take antibiotics or other medications only as directed.

To reduce any discomfort or swelling, rinse your mouth three times a day with warm salt water. Use about 1 teaspoon of salt per glass of warm water. It's normal for your gums to be sore for several days.

Homecare - Temporary Onlays

How to care for a temporary onlay

Now that we've placed a temporary onlay, it's important to follow these recommendations to ensure the success of your final restoration:

Chewing and eating

If we used an anesthetic during the procedure, avoid chewing until the numbness has completely worn off.

Avoid chewing for at least one half-hour to allow the temporary cement to set.

To keep your temporary in place, avoid eating hard or sticky foods, especially chewing gum. If possible, chew only on the opposite side of your mouth.

Brushing and flossing

If your teeth are sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure, use desensitizing toothpaste. If sensitivity persists beyond a few days, call us.

Medication and discomfort

Take antibiotics or other medications only as directed. To reduce any discomfort or swelling, rinse your mouth three times a day with warm salt water. Use about 1 teaspoon of salt per glass of warm water. It's normal for your gums to be sore for several days.

When to call us

It's common and not a problem for a small portion of your temporary onlay to wear away or break off. Call us, though, if most or all of your temporary comes off. Save the temporary so we can recement it. It's very important for the proper fit of your final onlay that your temporary stay in place.

Call our office if your bite feels uneven, you have persistent sensitivity or discomfort, or if you have any questions or concerns.