Your Trenton Invisalign® Provider
The recovery period after a dental crown has been placed is typically a few days at most. While it is normal for patients to experience some sensitivity or discomfort during this time, the irritation and inflammation associated with the procedure will subside fairly quickly if all is well.
Numbness From Anaesthetic
Your dentist will likely use a local anesthetic during your procedure. 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 you are still numb.
You may also experience some minor bruising and inflammation around the injection site. This will subside on its own after a few days and does not usually necessitate the use of any additional medications.
General Pain & Discomfort
You will likely experience some minor discomfort and pain after the numbness from the anesthesia has worn off. This typically only lasts a few days, or at the most, a few weeks after the procedure is completed.
If you are experiencing discomfort, you should consider taking over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the discomfort during this time. Ibuprofen is frequently prescribed to patients to alleviate pain and make them more comfortable while they recover. However, you should always speak to your dentist before taking any sort of pain medication.
As a result of the irritation caused by the dental cement (which is used to secure the crown), you may notice some sensitivity in the gums surrounding the restored tooth.
If the pain you are experiencing does not subside or increases over the next few weeks, contact our office to schedule an appointment for further evaluation.
Living With a Dental Crown
Avoid eating anything hard, sticky, or chewy for the first 24 hours while you are recovering. During the days and weeks following your procedure, you can gradually reintroduce these foods into your diet.
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 gets used to the new restoration, it shouldn't be long until you no longer notice it.
That said, if your bite does not feel normal after about a week, the crown may need to be adjusted 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, as necessary. 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.