If you're going in for a dental crown procedure, don't worry. You're far from alone. Over 15 million people in Canada have dental crowns, making it a prevalent practice.
While there are a few different crown procedures, similar steps will need to be taken to ensure a proper recovery.
Whether you got a full bridge or a crown on top of your tooth, here's what you need to know about recovering from your dental crown procedure.
Recovering From A Dental Crown Procedure: What To Expect
There are many common reactions that people experience after a dental crown procedure. The most important thing to know is that there is no reason to panic; these reactions are totally normal. Here are the most common symptoms to experience after getting this procedure done:
Numbness
Your dentist likely used a local anesthetic, and the effects from it might last up to several hours. You may find you have numb lips, a crooked smile or some weird sensations. Don't worry; this is normal. To avoid hurting your lips and your mouth, restrain from chewing hard food and consuming hot beverages until your feeling returns to normal!
Pain, Sensitivity, or Discomfort
Pain, sensitivity and discomfort are common side effects of getting dental crowns, which may last from a few days to a week.
To reduce the pain and discomfort, you may take over-the-counter medications such as Advil or Tylenol. However, if you have a mouth inflammation resulting in unbearable pain, don't hesitate to contact your dentist for an appointment.
What You Can Do
There are some simple steps you can take to ensure the smoothest possible recovery from the dental crown procedure:
Avoid Harmful Foods
To prevent damaging your newly installed crowns, chew on the opposite side of your mouth for the first couple of days. In addition, chewy or sticky foods should be avoided in general for the time being, as they may dislodge the positioning of the crown.
Proper Oral Care
Once the anesthetic has worn off and your crown is in place, proper oral care is more important than ever. Believe it or not, crowns are still susceptible to decay like your teeth, so be sure to brush them gently with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and carefully floss before going to bed.
Take it One Step at a Time and Contact Your Dentist
When it comes to recovering from a dental crown procedure, follow the steps provided above to ensure a smooth recovery.
If you're experiencing any discomfort or a toothache, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for an appointment!