Recovering from a Dental Crown Procedure

Are you scheduled to have a crown placed and find yourself wondering what to expect from the recovery process? Today, our Windsor dentists describe what you can expect during your recovery from a dental crown procedure.

After Your Crown Has Been Placed

The recovery period after a dental crown has been placed typically lasts for just a few days at most. While it is normal for patients to experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort during this time, the irritation and inflammation associated with this common dental procedure will typically subside fairly quickly.

Numbness from Anaesthetic

There's a good chance that your dentist will use a local anesthetic during your dental crown procedure and you should expect that the numbing effect will last for a few hours afterward before gradually wearing off.

Keep your mouth as safe as possible when you're eating, and stay away from hot foods and liquids to avoid injuring your mouth while it's numb.

You may also experience some minor bruising and inflammation around the injection site, but this will subside on its own after a few days and does not usually necessitate the use of any additional medications.

Pain & Discomfort

It is not uncommon to experience some minor discomfort and pain after the numbness from the anesthesia wears off. Your discomfort should subside within a few days of the procedure being completed. If your pain continues beyond the amount of time indicated by your dentist be sure to call your dental office to let them know you are experiencing discomfort beyond what you expected.

Over-the-counter pain medication can be helpful for managing the discomfort during this time. Ibuprofen is frequently prescribed to patients in order to alleviate pain and make them feel more comfortable while they recover. However, it's important to speak to your dentist before taking any sort of medication for pain.

As a result of the irritation caused by the dental cement (which was used to secure the crown), you may notice that the gums surrounding the restored tooth are also feeling a little sensitive.

During the following few weeks, if the pain you are experiencing does not subside or if it becomes more severe, contact your dental office to schedule an appointment for further evaluation.

Living with Your New Crown

During your recovery period, avoid eating anything that is hard, sticky, or chewy for the first 24 hours. During the days and weeks following your procedure, you can gradually reintroduce these foods into your diet.

Keep in mind that it is normal for a new crown to feel a little strange at first – almost as if it doesn't quite fit properly. Once your mouth becomes accustomed to the new restoration, however, you will most likely stop noticing it altogether.

That said, if your bite does not feel normal after about a week, it is possible that the crown will need to be adjusted in order for it to fit properly. In this case, you should schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist.

Dental crowns should be cared for the same way as natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings. In order to keep your teeth healthy and your crown in good working order, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene daily. Dental crowns can last for many years if they are maintained properly.

If you have questions about an upcoming dental crown procedure, and what you can expect from the recovery portion, please contact our Windsor dentists today.