Restorative Dentistry in Gisborne
At Amber Dental, restorative dentistry is about giving you back a smile that looks natural, feels comfortable, and works the way it should. Whether you've had a crown, bridge, dental implant, or a new set of dentures, our Gisborne team designs every restoration to restore function and confidence built to last with proper care.
This page brings together the aftercare instructions for each type of restoration, so you know exactly what to expect and how to look after your new tooth or teeth in the days and weeks that follow your appointment. If you're ever unsure about a symptom or how something feels, don't hesitate to get in touch we're here to help.
Temporary Crowns & Bridges
Temporary restorations protect your tooth until your permanent crown or bridge is cemented into place.
Care Instructions:
- Avoid biting: if a local anaesthetic was used, be careful not to bite or burn your numb lips, cheeks, or tongue — numbness can last for several hours.
- Keep it on: your temporary crown or bridge must stay in place to protect your tooth. If it comes off, call or email us immediately so we can re-cement it.
- Food: avoid chewing or biting directly on the temporary, and steer clear of sticky or hard foods, as it can break easily.
- Sensitivity & pain: some temperature sensitivity is normal. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help with any discomfort.
Aftercare: Temporary restorations protect your tooth until your permanent crown or bridge is cemented. Contact us if you have any issues or discomfort.
Crowns & Bridges — After Cementing Your Prosthesis
Congratulations on your new crown or bridge! Here's what to keep in mind after your appointment.
Care Instructions:
- Numbness: if a local anaesthetic was used, be careful not to bite or burn your lips, cheeks, or tongue while you're still numb.
- Sensitivity: feeling sensitive to hot, cold, or pressure is normal and should ease over several weeks. Let us know if it doesn't improve.
- Your bite: once the numbness wears off, call us straight away if the tooth feels "high" or your bite feels uneven — we can adjust it quickly.
- Daily care: brush and floss daily to keep your restoration in top condition. If you have a bridge, use interdental brushes or a floss threader (such as X-Floss) every day to clean underneath it.
- Potential complications: if the tooth was close to the nerve — for example, due to large decay or cracks — it may be more sensitive than usual. This nerve irritation usually settles, but persistent or worsening pain can be a sign of a deeper problem, sometimes requiring root canal treatment or extraction. Contact us if symptoms get worse rather than better.
Aftercare: Proper care ensures your restoration keeps functioning comfortably for the long term. Contact us if sensitivity persists.
Implants — After Placement
Your implant (or implants) has been anchored into your jawbone.
Care Instructions:
- Avoid biting while you're still numb.
- Don't smoke or drink alcohol.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activity for the remainder of the day.
- Rinse after meals as instructed, and avoid brushing the surgical site for the first 3 days.
- Eat soft foods and take pain relief as needed.
Aftercare: Following these steps supports proper healing and long-term implant success. Contact us if you experience unusual pain or swelling.
Implant Crowns & Bridges
Your implant prosthesis (crown or bridge) has now been placed.
Care Instructions:
- Avoid biting while you're still numb.
- Sensitivity may last a few days, and your mouth may take up to a week to fully adapt.
- Maintain thorough oral hygiene around the prosthesis.
- Minor adjustments to the prosthesis may be needed over time — this is normal.
- Attend your six-monthly scale and polish appointments to keep it in good condition.
Aftercare: Following these steps supports comfort and the long-term life of your prosthesis. Contact us if it ever feels loose or uncomfortable.
Dentures & Plates — Your New Teeth
Congratulations on your new teeth!
Care Instructions:
- Remove your dentures or plates at night and soak them in a cleaning solution.
- Clean them with a denture-specific brush, or by hand under running water — avoid regular toothpaste, as it can be abrasive.
- Some initial ulcers or gum irritation are common while your mouth adjusts; further adjustments may be needed.
- Keep caring for your natural teeth (if any remain) to help your denture keep its proper fit.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods, and cut other food into small pieces.
- If your dentures start to feel loose over time, relining or implant-retained options may help restore a secure fit.
Aftercare: With careful maintenance, your dentures or plates should stay comfortable and functional. Contact us if you experience soreness or difficulty adjusting.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Whether you need a crown, bridge, implant, or a new set of dentures, Amber Dental is here to help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence again. Call our friendly Gisborne team on 06 929 1614 to book your consultation.
