Getting a dental crown isn’t just about fixing a tooth—it’s about restoring your confidence and comfort. If you’ve recently received a brand-new crown, you may be feeling both relieved (bye-bye toothache!) and a little uncertain about how to properly care for it. Don’t worry: you’re not alone, and we at First Choice Dentistry are here to guide you every step of the way.
Easing Into Normal Life Again
Immediately after your crown placement, you may notice a slight difference in how your tooth feels when you bite down or chew. This is completely normal as your mouth adjusts to the new shape and size of the restoration. Any mild tenderness or sensitivity will usually subside within a few days. Think of it like breaking in a new pair of shoes: they may feel snug at first, but with time, they should fit perfectly.
It’s also quite common for the gum line around your new crown to feel mildly irritated, especially if the procedure involved trimming or recontouring the tooth. Keep brushing and flossing gently around the crown’s edges. Good oral hygiene not only keeps your new crown free from plaque buildup but also soothes the healing tissue.
What to avoid after getting a crown?
You’ve just invested in a wonderful restoration to protect your tooth—so the last thing you want is to compromise it. Let’s talk about some of the common things you should avoid immediately after getting your crown, and even in the long run:
- Hard or Sticky Foods: In the first few days, it’s wise to steer clear of anything that might pry or tug at your crown. Chewing on ice, crunching hard candies, or enjoying sticky caramels can be risky. These foods can place undue stress on the crown and, in worst-case scenarios, dislodge or damage it. After a brief adjustment period, you’ll be able to eat most things, but it’s always good to be mindful of extremes.
- Using Your Crown as a Tool: We’ve all been tempted to rip open a package with our teeth or chew on a pen cap when we’re lost in thought. However, these habits can damage both natural teeth and crowns. Keep the crowning glory of your smile for chewing food only.
- Ignoring Sensitivity or Pain: A little sensitivity—especially to hot or cold temperatures—is normal for a few days. If it persists or becomes painful, reach out to your dentist. Don’t just tough it out. At First Choice Dentistry, we’re here to ensure your crown feels just right.
- Skipping Your Check-Ups: Regular dental visits will help catch any potential issues with your crown early. Your dentist can identify if there’s a slight fit problem, or if plaque is accumulating at the margin of the crown. Preventive care is far easier (and less expensive) than dealing with bigger problems down the line.
How long after a crown is cemented can I eat?
Picture this: you walk out of the dental office, hungry and eyeing a big sandwich. But you have a newly cemented crown—so how soon can you start munching away?
- Give It Some Time to Set: Once your crown is cemented, there’s a specific bonding process that needs to happen between your tooth, the crown, and the dental cement. While this bonding solidifies fairly quickly, most dentists suggest waiting at least one hour before you eat anything. This allows the cement to achieve its initial set, reducing the risk of dislodging the crown.
- Be Gentle at First: If possible, wait a couple of hours before having a proper meal, and when you do, opt for softer foods. A hearty soup or well-cooked pasta can be friendlier to your tooth. After 24 hours, you can generally eat like normal, but continue to exercise caution with particularly hard or sticky foods for a few more days.
- Watch Out for Temperature Sensitivity: Right after a crown is placed, you might notice that hot tea or icy-cold smoothies feel a bit intense. This sensitivity usually fades within days or weeks as the tooth (and any slight inflammation in the gum tissue) settles down.
- Enjoy a Balanced Diet: Ultimately, a healthy, varied diet is great for both your crown and your overall oral health. Foods rich in vitamins and minerals—like fresh fruits, veggies, and lean proteins—help strengthen the supporting structures of your teeth.
How do you tell if a tooth crown is not fitted properly?
Getting a crown is often smooth sailing, but occasionally, you might suspect something isn’t quite right. Let’s look at a few signs that might indicate your crown isn’t fitting as perfectly as it should:
- Persistent Pain or Sensitivity: A little sensitivity is normal. But if the tooth or surrounding gum remains consistently sore or painful after a couple of weeks, it may be a sign that the crown is too high or placing uneven pressure on the tooth.
- Difficulty Biting Down: You should be able to bite without feeling like the crowned tooth is the first to meet its opposing tooth. If your bite feels “off,” or you notice that you’re hitting the crowned tooth before the others, the crown may need adjustment.
- Gum Irritation: If the edge of the crown (the margin) is irritating your gum or collecting excessive plaque, it could be an indication that the crown’s margin isn’t shaped or placed correctly. Healthy gums around a crown should not remain inflamed long-term.
- Visible Gaps or Spaces: Sometimes, you might notice a small gap between the crown and the adjacent tooth—food or debris could get trapped there. This not only causes discomfort but can also lead to decay or gum issues if not addressed.
If you experience any of these issues, don’t panic. A quick visit to First Choice Dentistry can usually resolve the problem. A simple adjustment is often all that’s needed, and in rare cases, a redo of the crown might be recommended.
Beyond the Crown: Other Dental Services to Keep in Mind
Sometimes, a crown is just one part of your overall oral health journey. If you’ve had a root canal on a tooth, you might already know how crucial it is to protect that tooth from future fractures with a well-fitted crown. But maybe you’re also interested in improving the appearance of your other teeth or want to learn more about treatments for gum disease.
From teeth whitening and cosmetic veneers, to orthodontic solutions and routine cleanings, First Choice Dentistry offers a full suite of dental services to help you maintain a vibrant, healthy smile. If you’ve got questions about any additional procedures—or if you’re curious whether a different type of restoration is right for you—don’t hesitate to ask during your next visit.
A Friendly Heads-Up: Pay Attention to Changes
Your crown should feel like a seamless part of your smile. If, at any point, it starts to feel otherwise—maybe it’s a bit loose, sensitive, or you notice the gum around it changing color—it’s best to book an appointment sooner rather than later. Small issues can become big problems if neglected.
Remember that your dentist is your ally, not just your tooth fixer! We truly want you to enjoy the full benefits of your new crown without any complications. So don’t be shy—tell us everything, from lingering concerns to minor discomforts.
Ready for Your Next Check-Up?
If you have any lingering questions, concerns, or if you just want the peace of mind of a professional check-up, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us at First Choice Dentistry. Our friendly team is always here to help, whether it’s adjusting a crown, discussing a root canal, or simply giving you the reassurance you need to keep smiling with confidence.
Don’t hesitate—let’s keep your smile in tip-top shape together. We can’t wait to see you soon!
