A dental crown is a common restorative solution used to protect and strengthen a damaged or decayed tooth. Whether you’ve just had your first crown placed or you’re preparing for the procedure, understanding how to care for it properly is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain your oral health. While dental crowns are durable, they aren’t invincible. Good aftercare can help extend their life and prevent complications.
Immediate Care After Crown Placement
After getting a dental crown, it’s normal to experience some sensitivity, especially to hot or cold temperatures. This is typically due to the adjustment period your tooth and gum tissue go through. It’s important to avoid extremely hot or cold foods and drinks for a few days. Your dentist may recommend using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth to ease discomfort.
If you received a temporary crown before your permanent one is placed, you’ll need to be particularly gentle with it. Temporary crowns are usually made from less durable materials and are attached with temporary adhesive, so they can dislodge more easily. Try chewing on the opposite side of your mouth and avoid sticky or hard foods that might pull the crown off or damage it.
Managing Discomfort and Healing
Mild pain or soreness in the gums around the crowned tooth can occur after the procedure. Rinsing with warm salt water can soothe the area and promote healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and discomfort, but always follow your dentist’s specific instructions.
It’s also essential to keep your mouth clean during the healing period. Brush and floss gently around the crown, taking extra care not to disturb the surrounding gum tissue. Avoid aggressive brushing that could irritate the area or cause the crown to loosen prematurely.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Long-term success with a dental crown starts with consistent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the crown. Some dentists recommend using floss threaders or interdental brushes if the crown is in a hard-to-reach area.
Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can also help control bacteria in the mouth and prevent gum disease, which could affect the stability of your crown over time. Even though the crown itself can’t decay, the underlying tooth and surrounding gum tissue are still vulnerable, making proper hygiene essential.
What to Eat and What to Avoid
Choosing the right foods can help protect your crown from damage. While most crowns are made of strong materials like porcelain or ceramic fused to metal, they can still crack or chip under pressure. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, popcorn kernels, and hard candy. Sticky foods such as caramel or chewing gum can also pose a risk, as they may dislodge the crown or damage the adhesive that holds it in place. A diet that supports overall dental health includes plenty of water, fresh fruits and vegetables, and foods high in calcium. Staying hydrated also helps maintain saliva flow, which is important for neutralizing acids and cleaning your teeth naturally throughout the day.
Regular Dental Checkups Are Key
Even if your crown feels fine, it’s important to keep up with your regular dental checkups. Your dentist will check the integrity of the crown, ensure it’s still properly seated, and monitor the surrounding gums and underlying tooth. If there’s any sign of decay beneath the crown or issues with the fit, catching it early can prevent more serious problems. Additionally, if you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a nightguard. Grinding can wear down or crack your crown over time, and a custom-fit mouthguard can provide crucial protection.
Dental Crown Care in Indianapolis, IN
At North Meridian Dental Excellence, we are dedicated to your oral health. If you suffer from decay or damage, a dental crown could help restore your bite and prevent worsening conditions. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how to care for your dental restorations.