Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Our Park Ridge dental office uses advanced dental technology to provide top-notch care, including dental crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. In this article, we’ll walk you through the dental crown process and, most importantly, the essential aftercare tips to help maintain your crown’s longevity and keep your smile healthy.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped covering placed over a damaged or decayed tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance, allowing you to use the tooth normally again. Crowns are often necessary when a tooth has been weakened by decay, cannot support a filling, or has been cracked or worn down. While dental crowns are a restorative treatment, they also provide cosmetic benefits, ensuring your smile looks as good as it feels.
Why You Might Need a Crown
Even patients who brush their teeth regularly, floss daily, and attend routine dental exams can experience tooth decay or damage that may require a crown. If a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling, a crown is often the best solution to restore function and prevent further issues. Dental crowns provide a long-lasting solution for many patients, whether due to decay, trauma, or wear.
The Difference Between Temporary and Permanent Crowns
When you need a crown, the process typically takes two visits:
- Temporary Crown: During the first visit, our dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any damaged or decayed portions and taking an impression for the custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth until the permanent crown is ready. This temporary crown is not as durable as the final crown, so it’s important to be cautious.
- Permanent Crown: At your second visit, the permanent crown, custom-made to fit your tooth, will be securely cemented. Once the crown is placed, follow a few simple aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and long-term success.
Dental Crown Aftercare: Tips for Immediate and Long-term Care
Caring for your new dental crown is essential for its durability and comfort. Follow these guidelines for both temporary and permanent crowns to avoid complications and ensure the best possible outcome.
Immediately After Crown Placement
Once your permanent crown is cemented, the following steps will help prevent any issues during the first few days:
- Wait to eat until the anesthetic wears off: Eating too soon could lead to accidental biting of your cheeks, lips, or tongue while numb. Give yourself time to regain full sensation before consuming food or drinks.
- Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods: For the first 24-48 hours, avoid foods like nuts, caramel, ice, or crunchy snacks. These can dislodge or damage the crown, especially if it’s newly cemented. Stick to softer foods and chew on the opposite side of your mouth to protect the crown.
- Stay away from hot and cold beverages: Your tooth may be sensitive to extreme temperatures, so avoid very hot or cold drinks for a while.
- Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush, and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup around the crown and protect the underlying tooth. This helps ensure both your crown and natural teeth stay healthy.
- Use toothpaste for sensitive teeth: If you experience any sensitivity, particularly to hot or cold, switching to a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help alleviate discomfort.
Managing Sensitivity and Pain
It’s normal to experience some mild discomfort or sensitivity after getting a dental crown. Here’s how to manage it effectively:
- Use over-the-counter pain relief: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage soreness or sensitivity. Follow the dosage instructions on the packaging, and contact Dr. Kuchta if the pain persists longer than expected.
- Monitor temperature sensitivity: Some patients experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks after crown placement. This sensitivity should subside within a few days. If it continues, call our office for advice.
- Check your bite: Pay attention to how your bite feels over the next few days. If the crown feels too high or your bite seems uneven, contact us for an adjustment.
Long-term Dental Crown Care
One of the advantages of a dental crown is that, once properly placed and cared for, it requires no special maintenance beyond good oral hygiene. However, there are a few steps you can take to protect your crown and ensure its long-term success:
- Avoid bad habits: Habits like biting your nails, chewing on pens or ice, or using your teeth as tools can damage the crown or cause it to come loose. Be mindful of what you put in your mouth to avoid unnecessary damage.
- Stick to regular dental checkups: Follow-up visits are crucial for checking the fit and condition of your crown. Regular dental exams and cleanings help detect potential issues early, ensuring your crown remains in good shape.
- Keep up with good oral hygiene: Brushing twice daily and flossing around the crown are essential for preventing plaque buildup, which can lead to decay in the underlying tooth or gum disease.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. The longevity of your crown depends on how well you follow aftercare instructions, your oral hygiene habits, and avoiding behaviors that could damage it. Our general dentist will provide personalized recommendations based on your needs to ensure your crown remains durable and functional for years.
Contact Our Park Ridge Dentist Today
If you need a dental crown or are due for a checkup, don’t hesitate to call Complete Health Dentistry at (847) 696-3240. Our team is happy to assist with any questions or concerns you have about dental crowns or your overall oral health.
With the proper care and attention, your dental crown will help you maintain a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile for years to come.
