For many patients, a dental crown is a necessary procedure that is used to help restore a tooth. It is most often needed to repair teeth that have become damaged, decayed, misshapen or discolored. After the tooth is fixed, the crown caps it to restore its appearance and function. While the procedure itself is simple, it is imperative that dental patients follow proper aftercare procedures for fast and proper healing to ensure the longevity of the restoration.
The following details the proper care dental patients need to adhere to for both temporary and permanent crowns.
Temporary crowns are more fragile and extra care is needed to ensure the restoration sets properly and does not crack or fall out. Patients should abstain from eating and drinking for at least 30 minutes following the placement of the temporary cap so the cement can dry. It is important to avoid chewing gum and eating foods that are chewy, hard or sticky as these can dislocate the restoration. Patients should also chew on the opposite side of the mouth from where the crown is placed as much as possible. Tooth brushing should be done gently, and flossing directly around the temporary cap is not recommended.
The temporary crown is typically worn for a period of a few weeks before a permanent one is ready to be placed. A temporary cap that is properly cared for should last until the permanent one is ready to be placed. However, if the temporary does break or fall out, patients should call the dentist office as soon as possible. The dentist may want to replace it while waiting for the permanent cap to come in.
It is also important to avoid eating hard and sticky foods or chewing gum during the first 24 hours after a permanent crown is placed while the cement sets. Brushing teeth is allowed, but patients may want to floss more gently during the healing period. The tooth and gums may be sore for the first few days following the restoration, so dentists often advise patients to eat softer foods during the recovery period.
The recovery period after the placement of a dental crown is typically a few days. Patients may experience some inflammation, sensitivity and irritation following the procedure that should subside within a week or two. Warm salt water rinses a few times a day are recommended to help reduce swelling of the gums. Any pain issues should be easily managed with over-the-counter medications. If there is still discomfort, soreness or trouble biting after the recovery period, patients are advised to go back to the dentist to make sure the crown does not need any adjustments.
It is vital for patients who have had a dental crown placed to follow proper aftercare instructions for the procedure. Taking diligent care of the restoration can keep the crown strong and ensure a beautiful and lasting smile.
Request an appointment here: https://brimhalldentalgroup.com or call Brimhall Dental Group at (661) 249-1122 for an appointment in our Bakersfield office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
A cosmetic dentist is often associated with improving the appearance of the smile, but many treatments also offer important functional and health-related benefits. While patients may seek care for whiter, straighter, or more uniform teeth, cosmetic dentistry can contribute to long-term oral health, structural integrity, and overall confidence. Understanding the full value of cosmetic dental…
Full mouth reconstruction can help patients restore oral function, comfort, and confidence when several dental concerns affect the smile at the same time. This type of treatment may involve repairing damaged teeth, replacing missing teeth, improving bite balance, and supporting healthier gums. Because every patient has different needs, the process usually begins with a detailed…
Cosmetic dentists take pride in enhancing the appearance of their patients' smiles. Since everyone has different treatment goals, finding the right dentist can take some time and research. Asking yourself a few simple questions can help you figure out what you need in a cosmetic dentist, streamlining your search.While all general dentists complete training to…
Dentures restore both function and aesthetics, enabling individuals to speak, eat, and smile with confidence. However, over time, they will require professional denture repair. Just like natural teeth, dentures require proper care and maintenance to function effectively. Sometimes, even with proper care, dentures may show signs of wear and tear that necessitate professional intervention. Recognizing…
A cosmetic dentist is often associated with improving the appearance of the smile, but many treatments also offer important functional and health-related benefits. While patients may seek care for whiter, straighter, or more uniform teeth, cosmetic dentistry can contribute to long-term oral health, structural integrity, and overall confidence. Understanding the full value of cosmetic dental…
Full mouth reconstruction can help patients restore oral function, comfort, and confidence when several dental concerns affect the smile at the same time. This type of treatment may involve repairing damaged teeth, replacing missing teeth, improving bite balance, and supporting healthier gums. Because every patient has different needs, the process usually begins with a detailed…