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Recovering from a Dental Crown Procedure

Here, our Taber dentists describe what you can expect during your recovery from a dental crown procedure. 

The recovery period after a dental crown has been placed typically lasts for a few days at most. While it is normal for patients to experience some amount of sensitivity or discomfort in their gums during this time, the inflammation and irritation associated with the procedure should subside relatively quickly in most cases. 

Numbness from Anaesthetic

It's possible that your dentist used a local anesthetic during your procedure, and that the numbing effect will last for a few hours afterward before gradually wearing off.

Keep your mouth shut for as long as possible while you are eating and stay away from hot foods and liquids in order to avoid injuring your mouth while it is still numb.

You may experience some minor bruising and inflammation around the injection site, but this will subside on its own a few days after and doesn't necessitate the use of any extra medications. 

Pain & Discomfort

It is likely that you will experience some minor discomfort and pain after the numbness from the anesthesia has worn off. This usually subsides within a few days, or at the most, a few weeks, of the procedure being completed.

If you're experiencing some discomfort, you should consider taking over-=the-counter pain medication to help manage pain during this time. Ibuprofen is frequently prescribed to patients to alleviate their pain and make them more comfortable while recovering.  Hwoever, always ask your dentist before taking any kind 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 becomes more severe, please contact our 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.

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 in the same way that you care for your natural teeth, with routine brushing and flossing as well as regularly scheduled appointments with your dentist for exams and cleanings. In order to keep your teeth healthy and your crown in good working order, you should make sure you are practice good oral hygiene every day. 

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 Taber dentists today.

(403) 223-3135