Our Calgary 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 sensitivity or discomfort during this time, the irritation and inflammation associated with the procedure will subside fairly quickly in most cases.
Numbness from Anaesthetic
If your dentist used a local anaesthetic during your procedure, the numbing effect may last for a few hours afterwards, before it begins to fade away.
Be careful when you eat and speak, and avoid hot foods and liquids, so that you do not injure your mouth while it is numb.
You may also notice some minor bruising and inflammation around the injection site, but this will go away on its own after a few days, and does not usually require any treatment.
Pain & Discomfort
You are likely to feel some minor pain and discomfort after the numbness from the anaesthesia wears off. This usually goes away after several days, or at most a few weeks, after the procedure.
If you are feeling sore, take an over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the pain during this time. Ibuprofen is often recommended to help reduce pain and make patients feel more comfortable as they recover.
As a result of irritation caused by the dental cement (used to place the crown), you may notice that your gums around the restored tooth feel a little sensitive as well.
If the pain you are experiencing shows no sign of going away after a few weeks, or if it is severe, please contact our office to book a followup appointment.
Living with Your New Crown
As you recover, be sure to avoid hard, sticky or chewy foods for the first 24 hours. You can gradually reintroduce these during the days and weeks after your procedure.
It is normal for a new crown to feel a bit strange at first – almost like it doesn't fit quite right. Once your mouth gets used to the new restoration, however, you will probably cease to notice it.
That said, if your bite does not feel normal after about a week, the crown may need an adjustment to help it fit properly, so you should book a followup appointment with your dentist.
You should take care of your dental crown the same way you do your natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing, and regular trips to the dentist for checkups and cleanings. Good oral hygiene is the key to keeping your teeth healthy, and to keeping your crown in good working order. With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years.