Modern technological advancements have made restoring your smile easier than ever. One of the most popular is a dental crown. It is an advanced type of dental restoration that repairs severely damaged or decayed teeth. By covering the entire tooth, a dental crown provides protection, while also improving its appearance. Many dentists now even offer CREC technology, which places the crown perfectly in just one visit! However, you may be also wondering what it will be like after the procedure. Here are four things to expect after getting a dental crown placed.
#1. There Will Be Some Numbness
A local anesthetic will be used so you will be thoroughly comfortable throughout your appointment. Since your dentist will ensure your mouth is completely numb, you won’t feel any of the procedure. However, there’s a good chance the effects will linger even after you leave the office. Until the feeling in your mouth returns, you should refrain from eating anything. After all, you don’t want to accidentally bite down hard on your tongue or cheek and have to return to your dentist!
#2. Expect a Bit of Discomfort and Sensitivity
While you won’t feel anything in the initial hours of getting your dental crown placed, you may begin to feel some discomfort and sensitivity once the numbness wears off. To alleviate any discomfort, you can place a cold compress against the outside of your cheek. Also, rising with a mixture of salt and warm water and taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help minimize further sensitivity. To protect your smile further, be mindful to avoid eating hard, chewy, and sticky foods and keep your head elevated while you sleep.
#3. Take Extra Care of Your Mouth
As with any dental procedure or treatment, you will want to keep your mouth clean. This will be critical to allowing your teeth and gums to fully heal. Your dental team will provide you with a list of aftercare instructions that are catered to your specific situation, but here are a few general best practices:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste to gently clean your teeth, gums, and dental crown
- Carefully and slowly floss between each tooth
- Refrain from unhealthy dental habits, like smoking and chewing on ice
#4. Implement a Few Changes to Your Diet
As stated above, your restoration can be placed successfully in just one visit to your dentist. While your restoration can be placed quickly, it is wise to watch your diet for a time after the procedure. You’ll want to avoid hard and crunchy foods (like popcorn and pretzels) since they can result in additional discomfort. Sticking to vitamin-rich, soft foods following your appointments, like vegetable soup, oatmeal, and yogurt will be best for your renewed smile. And of course, always minimize sugary foods to protect your smile from tooth decay.
Restoring your tooth with a dental crown is just the first step in tending to your oral health –recovery is equally as important. With these helpful tips, you will soon be enjoying your health and happy smile!
About the Practice
Rancho Dental Group keeps the smiles of Los Angeles whole and healthy through the expertise of its two dentists. They offer a wide range of dental services, including restorative treatments like dental crowns. By using personalized plans and advanced technology, they can assist with you any of your oral health needs and goals. To schedule an appointment, contact him through his website or call (310) 575-0886.