Getting a dental crown is an important step in preserving your oral health. Whether it was necessary due to decay, a cracked tooth, or after a root canal, a crown acts as a strong, protective cap that restores function and appearance. However, the procedure doesn’t end once you leave the dentist’s chair. Proper aftercare is essential to ensure the longevity of your crown and the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.
Managing Sensitivity and Discomfort
It’s common to experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the days following your crown placement. Your tooth may react to hot or cold foods, or there might be mild soreness around the gums where the crown was fitted. These symptoms are typically short-lived. However, you can manage them with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods for the first few days and stick to softer foods until your bite feels normal. If the sensitivity lasts longer than a couple of weeks or becomes more intense, it’s a good idea to contact your dentist to check for bite misalignment or nerve irritation.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
A dental crown itself can’t decay, but the natural tooth beneath it still can. That’s why maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing is equally important, especially around the crown’s margins, to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. When flossing near a crown, slide the floss out rather than snapping it up. Aggressive flossing might dislodge the crown over time.
Choosing the Right Foods
After getting a crown, it’s best to avoid sticky or very hard foods, especially in the first few weeks. Foods like caramel, taffy, and chewing gum can pull at your crown. Hard items like nuts or ice cubes may crack the porcelain. Once the crown has fully set and you’ve adjusted to it, most patients can return to a normal diet. That said, even long-term, it’s wise to avoid biting directly into hard foods with the crowned tooth if it’s in a vulnerable spot, like a front incisor or a previously damaged molar.
Regular Dental Visits Matter
Seeing your dentist regularly is key to the health of your crown and your entire mouth. Routine checkups allow your dentist to monitor the crown’s condition, examine the underlying tooth, and ensure your bite is still properly aligned. Even though crowns are designed to last many years, often 10 to 15 or more, they can wear down or become loose over time. Professional cleanings will also help maintain the health of the gum tissue around the crown. This is vital for preventing complications like gum recession or infection.
Be Mindful of Habits That Can Damage Your Crown
Certain habits can significantly shorten the lifespan of your crown. Grinding or clenching your teeth, often while sleeping, can place excessive pressure on your crown. If you have this habit, talk to your dentist about getting a nightguard to protect your teeth. Chewing on pens, opening packages with your teeth, or biting your nails are also risky behaviors that can cause your crown to crack or dislodge. Being aware of these habits and making a conscious effort to avoid them will help keep your crown in excellent shape.
Dental Crown Care in Mt. Pleasant, MI
At Mid Michigan Smiles, we are dedicated to helping you preserve your natural tooth structure. If you have decay or damage, a dental crown could prevent the need for extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your dental restorations.