Days After Dental Crown: How to Handle Aftercare

Dental crowns are a common solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, but like any dental procedure, they require a period of recovery. Understanding the steps and considerations involved in the recovery process can help ensure a smooth transition to a fully functional and pain-free smile. Below are key aspects of recovery, focusing on immediate aftercare, managing discomfort, and long-term maintenance.

Immediate Aftercare

Right after getting a dental crown, it’s crucial to take some immediate steps to protect your new crown and ensure proper healing. Typically, your dentist will advise you to avoid eating until the numbness from the anesthesia wears off to prevent accidentally biting your tongue or cheek. Once you can eat, stick to soft foods and avoid anything too hot or cold, as your tooth may be sensitive. It’s also important to refrain from chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown was placed for the first 24 to 48 hours to allow the dental cement to fully set. Practicing good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and flossing, helps prevent any bacteria from accumulating around the crown.

Managing Discomfort

Some discomfort is normal after getting a dental crown, especially in the first few days. You might experience soreness in the gum tissue around the crowned tooth or some sensitivity to temperature. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage this discomfort. If you notice persistent pain when you bite down, it could be a sign that the crown is too high and may need adjustment by your dentist. Another common issue is sensitivity to hot or cold foods, which often diminishes over time. If sensitivity persists, using toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can provide some relief. It’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely; if pain or discomfort worsens or doesn’t improve within a few days, a follow-up visit to your dentist may be necessary.

Long-Term Maintenance

Once you’ve recovered from the initial placement of your dental crown, maintaining it is relatively straightforward. Crowns are designed to be durable, but they still require care to last as long as possible. Regular brushing and flossing are essential to prevent plaque buildup around the crown and the surrounding gum tissue. It’s also wise to avoid chewing on hard objects, like ice or pens, which could damage the crown. Additionally, if you grind your teeth at night, consider using a mouthguard to protect your crown and other teeth from excessive wear. Routine dental check-ups will allow your dentist to monitor the condition of the crown and catch any potential issues early.

About Our Practice

At Dolfield Dental of Owings Mills, we’ve spent the last decade developing our reputation for exceptional, attentive dental care. We’ve earned that by making sure that our patients are as comfortable as they can possibly be from the moment they step into our office throughout the entire process of aftercare. Whether you need a checkup, dental crown, or something more intensive, we can promise that we’ll be here for you!

If you have any questions about dental crowns, we can be reached at our website or by phone at (410) 390-0277.