Receiving a dental crown may have you asking many questions. How should you handle any discomfort? What is necessary to ensure it remains clean and decay-free? This article will provide the answers to these questions and more, allowing you to become more familiar with what you can expect after having your customized restoration put into place.
Immediate Post-Crown Expectations
Although these restorations are designed to protect and improve your smile, you can expect there to be some mild soreness and sensitivity following their placement. Sometimes you’ll be receiving local anesthesia before receiving your new crown and it will take time for the numbness to subside. During this timeframe, it’s best to not eat anything, as you might accidentally bite down on your tongue or cheek, resulting in immense soreness.
In the days following your appointment, you might find it helpful to consume soft foods and avoid anything too hot or cold. Although home care may be uncomfortable at first, just be careful when brushing and flossing around your dental crown, but don’t disregard your oral hygiene routine, as it’s essential to eliminate cavity-causing bacteria.
Ways to Care For Your Dental Crown
Now that you are equipped with a trusted and reliable artificial tooth, you’ll need to identify products and techniques to make sure it remains healthy and free of decay or damage. To do this, you can expect your dentist to offer some suggestions, such as:
- Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste that is designed to address tooth sensitivity.
- Brush your teeth twice each day for two minutes and floss your teeth at least once a day before bedtime.
- Keep your regularly scheduled dental checkups and cleanings to avoid bacterial accumulations.
- Avoid eating hard, crunchy foods or engaging in bad habits like nail-biting or eating ice, as these can damage your crown.
- While wearing a temporary crown, be careful how you floss to avoid accidentally popping the crown out of place.
- Also, while wearing a temporary, stick to softer, non sticky foods and try not to chew on that side of your mouth.
Dental crowns are some of the most trusted and effective restorative treatments available. By keeping these helpful tips in mind, you can enjoy a healthier smile that remains free of decay and damage and allows you to maintain optimal oral function day after day.
About the Author
Dr. Christel Cochell treats patients of all ages, providing a wide variety of services, and ensuring you and your family receive the care you need all in one place! Do you need a dental crown to protect a damaged or decayed tooth? If so, let us outfit your tooth with high-quality materials that are designed to blend in with your natural smile and offer optimal protection. To learn what we can do, contact us at (971) 273-5910.