Learning you need a dental crown may not be what you hoped to hear when visiting the dentist’s office. However, maintaining a healthier, fully functional smile is essential. As you prepare for your appointment, you may begin to wonder what recovery will be like and how to take proper care of your new restoration. Keep reading to find out what kind of tips you can follow to ensure swift healing and a longer-lasting smile.
What is Dental Crown Recovery Like?
Generally, you can expect your recovery to last a few days. Anytime a dentist alters a tooth, there is likely to be some mild soreness and sensitivity following the appointment.
Inflammation, irritation, and discomfort are the most common symptoms; however, with an over-the-counter pain reliever and a cold compress, you should see these side effects dissipate after 3-4 days.
To give you a better idea of what you should prepare for after returning home from your dental crown placement, here are a few expectations:
- Local anesthesia will take time to wear off, so you’ll want to avoid eating until you are no longer numb. Failing to do so can put your soft oral tissues at risk of becoming damaged should you accidentally bite down on your tongue or cheeks.
- Bruising is normal as well as inflammation, specifically in the spot where you received your anesthetic. Do not worry, though, as this will quickly go away after a short time.
- Discomfort is normal and may last several days or weeks; however, using OTC pain relievers or numbing medications can minimize the feeling to allow for improved comfort.
- Sensitivity is likely to occur after receiving a dental crown. You might consider using toothpaste that is designed to reduce this problem as well as applying topical anesthetic gel to temporarily numb the area.
A few things that are not normal and should lead to seeking your dentist’s help are pain that lasts weeks and continues to increase as well as an uncomfortable or improper bite. This could require your dentist to perform an adjustment.
Tips for Maintaining a New Dental Crown
After your dental crown is firmly affixed over your vulnerable tooth, you’ll need to make sure that you follow the instructions provided by your dentist to take proper care of it. Although it protects the underlying tooth and is not porous like regular enamel, it requires diligent cleaning and maintenance if you want to avoid additional restorative treatment in the future.
You can:
- Practice regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing as instructed (twice per day for two minutes).
- Be mindful when flossing, as lifting it can cause the crown to become dislodged. Instead, slide it out from between teeth.
- Keep scheduled dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist twice per year to allow for a complete examination of your mouth and restoration.
- Limit or avoid hard, sticky foods that can damage your dental crown.
- While wearing a temporary crown, chew on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid dislodging the restoration.
Dental crowns are an effective and long-lasting solution when treating damaged or decayed teeth. Make sure you follow all aftercare and maintenance instructions so that you not only heal nicely but enjoy a new and improved smile year after year.
About the Practice
At Meadowbrook Dental Care, our team of dental experts is here to ensure you get the attention you need and deserve. Ensuring a stress-free experience, we do our best to deliver top-of-the-line service, no matter the type of treatment you require. When restorative care is necessary, we will make sure you understand what you can expect from beginning to end. If you have questions about dental crown placement or what you can expect after it’s put into place, visit our website or give our office a call at (516) 284-1234.