Even though your tooth enamel is the hardest substance in your body, it can still sustain some damage either due to an injury or decay. If you’re struggling with a compromised tooth, then you might be able to repair it with a custom dental crown. These restorations can help protect the structure of your enamel so that you can go back to enjoying a strong and comfortable smile. Read on to learn what you should expect during your healing period after undergoing the procedure.
Numbness in the Mouth
Immediately after leaving your appointment, you might experience some mild numbness in your mouth due to the local anesthetic provided at the beginning of the visit. The effects of the medication should begin to wear off after a few hours following your treatment, which will allow you enough time to get the prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers you need when the numbness wears off. Remember not to eat hard foods or drink spicy beverages, as you don’t want to disturb the treated tooth while it heals.
Soreness & Sensitivity
Once the numbing solution fades, it’s normal to feel some sensitivity and soreness around your tooth. This should go away after some time, so you’ll simply have to keep the area clean and avoid disturbing it. You might also be able to apply over-the-counter analgesic medications or take pain relievers to alleviate any discomfort. If you notice any pain continuing after a few weeks or worsening over time, notify your dentist for help.
Maintaining Your Temporary Crown
After you’ve had your compromised tooth altered to make room for your dental crown, you’ll be provided with a temporary one while you wait for your permanent restoration. Even though you won’t wear the provisional one for long, you’ll still need to take proper care of it so that you can avoid issues with the underlying tooth. Several ways to care for your temporary crown include:
- Avoiding chewy or sticky treats
- Chewing on the opposite side of your mouth
- Refraining from biting into tough foods
- Being careful while flossing; sliding the thread through instead of “lifting” it out
Oral Hygiene
Once your final dental crown is fabricated, you’ll be free to enjoy most foods as you did before. Remember, however, to maintain a good oral hygiene routine to preserve your restoration and oral health, such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash every day. Don’t forget to also visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months to help you avoid more costly complications down the road.
While the dental crown procedure is one of the major restorative services out there, the recovery period can go quite smoothly. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be able to enjoy a stronger and healthier bite in the long run!
About the Author
Dr. Cher is a graduate of the University of Texas at Houston Dental School and has decades of experience in the dental field. She provides a wide range of comprehensive and reliable services to help restore and improve patient’s smiles, including tooth-colored dental crowns. If you’d like to know more about this treatment or wish to schedule an appointment, don’t hesitate to visit our website or call our office at 757-412-1400.