A dental crown is used to restore a natural tooth affected by damage or decay. Its placement is a fairly straightforward process, one that your dentist will complete in only two or three appointments, but what is the recovery like? Are there things you can do to ensure complications do not arise? Absolutely. Keep reading to learn what tips can be most useful after receiving your dental crown.
Week 1 Recovery
The first several days after receiving your dental crown will include some minor discomfort and sensitivity. Any time you require oral care that involves altering the size or shape of a tooth, some slight soreness is likely to occur. Here are some tips to follow in these first 7 days:
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, to minimize discomfort and inflammation
- Avoid hard and sticky foods, as they can dislodge your crown (temporary or permanent)
- Gently brush and floss your teeth so that you don’t irritate or disturb your crown
Week 2 Recovery
Tooth sensitivity is likely during this time, so you’ll need to be mindful of what you eat, drink, and use to care for your teeth. You can:
- Avoid all hot or cold drinks and beverages; instead, consume lukewarm items
- Try using a desensitizing toothpaste to clean your teeth
- Contact your dentist if you notice your tooth sensitivity is not improving
Weeks 3 and 4 Recovery
By this time, you will begin to notice that your crown feels more settled and in place. You will likely be more adjusted to its presence and begin resuming normal daily habits. Your bite will feel more balanced, so additional pressure should not feel as if it is placed on specific teeth. Also, you can start eating regular foods (just be careful not to bite down on something too hard, as it can break your crown) and practicing your normal oral hygiene routine.
A Few Additional Recovery Tips
If you want to speed up the recovery process and get back to life as normal, there are a few things you can do during this time, such as:
- Do not drink alcohol or smoke during the first few weeks of your recovery.
- Make sure you attend any follow-up appointments your dentist recommends.
- Practice warm salt water rinses a few times a day to eliminate bad bacteria.
You shouldn’t expect a long recovery when receiving a dental crown. Instead, you can follow these tips and be back to using your teeth like normal before you know it.
About the Author
Dr. Mark Makram provides restorative care to those suffering from dental decay or damage. When a dental crown is required, he will ensure it is crafted to fit correctly and comfortably so that you can enjoy daily life without discomfort. He will also provide helpful tips to make the recovery process simple and easy to follow. If you are preparing to receive a dental crown but have questions about post-treatment aftercare, visit our website or call (239) 513-9990 to schedule a consultation.