Whether you’re patching up a cavity, finishing up a root canal, or just transforming a less-than-stellar-looking tooth, a dental crown can be a way to repair a tooth in just about any condition that it could be in.
Immediately after you get the dental crown, you’ll have to do a little bit of aftercare before you feel 100% again. Here’s what you can do to stay comfortable after the procedure.
The Day Of
In most cases, your dentist will apply an anesthetic before your dental crown procedure to make it as comfortable as possible. After your crown has been placed, you’ll then need to wait for the anesthetic to wear off.
Until then, it’s possible that you could accidentally bite your cheek without realizing it, or burn yourself on something hot. For that reason, you should try to avoid eating anything chewy or hot until then.
Getting Through Sensitivity
While the procedure itself tends to be painless, most people report dealing with a little bit of sensitivity in the days afterward. Most of the aftercare tends to involve managing this discomfort.
One of the first things you can try is an over-the-counter pain reliever, whatever you would normally take for a headache. Your gums may also be irritated due to the dental cement—if so, most pharmacies carry an anti-inflammatory topical gel designed specifically for this purpose.
Finally, it’s also normal for the dental crown to feel a little bit strange in your mouth for a while after its placement. You’ll get used to it after a while, so just hang in there until then.
However, if you find that these problems continue after several weeks or are severe, you should contact your dentist. There may be an issue with your restoration.
Caring for your Dental Crown Long-Term
Once the sensitivity fades, you can take care of your dental crown just like you would any of your other teeth. Brush it twice a day each day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss around it each day.
Make sure to see your dentist often as well—they’ll be able to help you look out for health conditions before they become serious.
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati loves being able to help his patients by making use of his expansive dental knowledge. He’s equipped his office to offer the latest in oral medicine to his patients, ensuring that they can always get top-notch dental care. Dr. Saati graduated from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, and he is now an active member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.
If you have any questions about dental crowns, he can be reached at his website or by phone at (978) 531-2185.