A dental crown is a durable and natural-looking restoration that protects and strengthens a damaged or weakened tooth. Once the procedure is complete, proper aftercare is essential to ensure that your crown lasts for many years and remains comfortable and functional. Understanding how to care for your new restoration will help you protect your investment and maintain excellent oral health.
Understanding Sensitivity and Initial Healing
It’s common to experience mild sensitivity or tenderness shortly after receiving a dental crown. Your gums and the surrounding tissues need a little time to adjust, especially if the dentist had to reshape the tooth or treat decay beforehand. Sensitivity to temperature changes can occur when eating hot or cold foods, but this usually subsides within a few days. Using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can provide relief during this period. If discomfort persists beyond a week or becomes more intense, it is important to contact your dentist to ensure the crown is properly seated.
Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene
Even though a dental crown covers your natural tooth, the underlying structure still requires regular care. Plaque can accumulate along the gumline, potentially leading to decay or gum disease. Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush is crucial to avoid damaging the crown or irritating the gums. Flossing each day is equally important. Gently slide the floss along the sides of the crown without snapping it down. If you have trouble flossing around a crowned tooth, your dentist may recommend a floss threader or water flosser to make the process easier.
Being Mindful of Eating Habits
Crowns are made from strong materials, but they are not indestructible. To keep them in great shape, it’s helpful to be mindful of what you chew. Avoid biting into hard objects such as ice, fingernails, popcorn kernels, or very sticky candies. These can loosen, crack, or dislodge a crown over time. Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth for the first day may help manage sensitivity, but once the area feels normal, you can return to your usual habits as long as you’re cautious with tougher foods. Staying aware of how you bite and chew will go a long way toward preserving your restoration.
Managing a Temporary Crown
If you are wearing a temporary crown while waiting for your permanent one, extra care is essential. Temporary crowns are not as strong, so it is helpful to chew on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid sticky foods that could pull the crown loose. If the temporary crown does come off, it’s important to contact your dentist promptly. Keeping the temporary in place protects the tooth and helps ensure the final crown fits comfortably.
Checking Your Bite and Comfort Level
Once your new crown is placed, pay attention to how it feels when you bite down. Sometimes a minor adjustment is needed to achieve a natural, even bite. If the crown feels too high or causes discomfort when chewing, a quick visit to the dentist can resolve the issue. Ignoring bite problems may lead to jaw discomfort or unnecessary wear on the crown.
Scheduling Regular Dental Visits
Routine checkups are one of the best ways to maintain a dental crown. Your dentist can monitor the health of the crowned tooth, check for signs of wear, and ensure the surrounding gums remain healthy. Professional cleanings also help remove plaque and tartar that you may miss at home, reducing the risk of decay around the crown’s edges.
Dental Crown Care in St. John, IN
At Ravenwood Dental, we are dedicated to helping you preserve your oral health. A dental crown could restore damaged or decayed teeth and prevent the need for extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your dental restorations.