Getting a dental crown is a significant step toward restoring your oral health and improving the appearance and function of your teeth. Whether you’ve had a crown placed due to a cavity, root canal, or broken tooth, proper aftercare is essential to ensure long-term success and comfort. Dental crowns are designed to be durable, but how well they perform and how long they last can depend greatly on how well you care for them.
Immediate Care After Placement
After your crown is placed, it’s common to experience some sensitivity or discomfort, especially around the gum area. This is a natural reaction and typically subsides within a few days. If your crown was placed using local anesthesia, avoid chewing on the numb side of your mouth until the sensation fully returns to avoid accidentally biting your cheek or tongue.
Stick to soft foods for the first day or two, especially if you’re still adjusting to the feel of the new crown. If your crown was placed with temporary cement, your dentist may advise you to avoid sticky or crunchy foods until your permanent crown is cemented in place. Once the permanent crown is placed, you can resume a normal diet, though some caution is still recommended.
Managing Sensitivity and Discomfort
Tooth sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold temperatures, can occur for a short period after receiving a crown. Using a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth can help reduce discomfort. If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks or becomes more intense, it’s important to consult your dentist, as it could indicate a problem with the fit or the underlying tooth. Pain when biting down could suggest that the crown is too high and needs adjustment. Your dentist could easily correct this, so don’t ignore persistent bite issues.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
One of the most important aspects of dental crown aftercare is maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Even though the crown itself cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath still can. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily will help prevent decay and gum disease around the crown. Be particularly gentle but thorough around the gumline to avoid plaque buildup, which can lead to infection or inflammation. Using an antibacterial mouthwash can also help maintain a healthy environment in your mouth. It plays a role in keeping harmful bacteria at bay and reducing the risk of complications.
Protecting Your Crown from Damage
Although crowns are made of durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, they are not indestructible. Avoid habits that can damage the crown, such as chewing on ice, pens, or fingernails. These actions can cause the crown to chip, crack, or even become loose over time. If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a custom night guard. Bruxism (teeth grinding) can put excessive pressure on a crown and significantly reduce its lifespan.
Regular Dental Visits
Routine check-ups with your dentist are crucial for monitoring the health of your crown and the surrounding teeth. During these visits, your dentist will check for signs of decay, gum issues, or any problems with the fit or integrity of the crown. Early detection of issues could prevent more serious complications and help extend the life of your crown. Professional cleanings also play a vital role in removing plaque and tartar that can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, including around your crown.
When to Call Your Dentist
If your crown feels loose, you experience persistent pain, or you notice swelling or bleeding around the crowned tooth, don’t wait to seek help. These symptoms could indicate an issue with the crown or the underlying tooth that requires immediate attention.
At Butler Family Dentistry, we are committed to preserving your natural tooth structure whenever possible. With a dental crown, you could avoid worsening conditions and the need for extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your dental restorations.