Getting a dental crown is a common and often effective way to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. Proper aftercare is essential for ensuring its longevity and maintaining overall oral health. While crowns are designed to be durable and long-lasting, how you care for them in the days, weeks, and years following the procedure can make all the difference.
Immediate Care After Crown Placement
It’s important to be gentle with the area for the first 24 to 48 hours. Some sensitivity or mild discomfort is normal, especially if you’ve had a root canal or if the tooth was severely damaged before treatment. Avoid sticky or hard foods immediately after the procedure, as these can put unnecessary pressure on the new crown. If the crown was placed using temporary cement, you may need to return for a follow-up appointment to have it permanently secured. In such cases, it’s especially important to avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the final crown is in place.
Pain or soreness around the gumline is also common after crown placement. This usually subsides on its own, but over-the-counter pain relievers and saltwater rinses can help alleviate discomfort. If you experience sharp or persistent pain, or if your bite feels uneven, it’s best to consult your dentist promptly.
Long-Term Oral Hygiene
One of the most important aspects of caring for a dental crown is maintaining a strong oral hygiene routine. Although crowns themselves cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath and the surrounding gum tissue are still vulnerable to cavities and gum disease. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily will help prevent plaque buildup around the crown and the rest of your teeth.
Pay special attention to the gumline where the crown meets your natural tooth. This area can become a trap for food particles and bacteria if not cleaned properly. Consider using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface of the crown. An antibacterial mouthwash can also help keep bacteria in check and promote gum health.
Eating and Lifestyle Considerations
After the initial healing period, most people can resume a normal diet. However, it’s wise to be mindful of habits that could put extra stress on your crown. Chewing ice, biting fingernails, or using your teeth to open packages can cause the crown to chip, crack, or even come loose. Hard candies and sticky foods like caramel or chewing gum can also pose a risk, especially over time.
If you grind your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), your dentist may recommend wearing a nightguard. Grinding puts a great deal of pressure on crowns and natural teeth alike and can lead to premature wear or damage. A custom-fit nightguard can protect both your crown and the rest of your smile while you sleep.
Monitoring the Crown Over Time
Dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more, depending on the material used and how well you care for them. Regular dental checkups are essential for monitoring the condition of your crown and the health of the surrounding tissue. Your dentist will check for signs of wear, decay under the crown, and any issues with fit or alignment.
Even if everything feels fine, don’t skip your routine dental visits. Catching small problems early can prevent bigger and more costly issues down the road. If your crown ever feels loose, wobbly, or falls out completely, contact your dentist right away to have it examined and reattached if possible.
Dental Crown Care in Cadillac, MI
At Brilliant Smiles Family Dentistry, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your oral health. If you have deep decay or extensive damage, a dental crown could preserve your natural tooth structure and prevent the need for extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.