Post-Operative Instructions for Dental Crowns

Congratulations on completing your dental crown procedure. This step is crucial in restoring your tooth’s function and aesthetics. To ensure the longevity of your new crown and to promote a smooth recovery, please adhere to the following post-operative instructions. We are dedicated to providing you with the care and information you need during this healing period.

1. Sensitivity: After the crown placement, you may experience some sensitivity to hot and cold. This is normal and should subside over time. If the crown has a nerve in it, the sensitivity may persist for a few weeks. If the sensitivity is severe or does not decrease, please contact us.

2. Adjusting to Your New Crown: It may take a few days to get used to the new crown in your mouth. If, after a few days, the crown seems to sit too high or affects your bite, please contact us for an adjustment.

3. Care of Your New Crown: Brush and floss around the crown just like your natural teeth. Good oral hygiene will help to extend the life of your new crown. Pay special attention to the area where the gum meets the tooth.

4. Eating: If your crown was placed using a temporary cement, avoid eating sticky or hard foods and chewing gum on the side of your mouth with the new crown. This precaution is necessary to ensure the crown stays in place until the cement has fully set. If your crown is permanently cemented, you can use it like your natural teeth, but it is wise to avoid chewing hard foods (like ice or hard candy) that could damage the crown.

5. Temporary Crown Care: If you have a temporary crown, it is important to avoid chewing gum and eating sticky or hard foods that might pull off or break the crown. Brush gently around the crown, and floss carefully to avoid dislodging it. If your temporary crown comes off, please contact us immediately to have it re-cemented.

6. Pain and Discomfort: It is normal to experience some mild discomfort or pain when chewing, or when the tooth is exposed to hot or cold temperatures. However, this discomfort should decrease in the days following the crown placement. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as directed to manage any discomfort.

7. Follow-Up Care: We may ask you to come back for a follow-up visit to check the placement of the crown and to ensure your bite is correct. This visit is important to the long-term success of your treatment.

8. Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking should be avoided as it can delay the healing process. Also, moderate your alcohol consumption, especially if you have a temporary crown, as alcohol can weaken the cement holding the crown in place.

9. Contact Us: If you experience any issues with your crown, such as it feeling loose, breaking, or if you experience persistent pain, please contact our dental office immediately. Do not wait for your next scheduled appointment.

Your new crown is an investment in your dental health, and with proper care, it can last for many years. We are here to support you through every step of your dental health journey, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.