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 Anesthesia
It's possible that your dentist will use 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 as safe as possible when you're eating, and avoid hot foods and liquids to avoid injuring your mouth while it's numb.
You may also experience some minor bruising and inflammation around the injection site, but this will subside on its own after a few days and does not usually necessitate the use of any additional medications.
Pain & Discomfort
You will likely 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.
If you are experiencing discomfort, you should consider taking over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the discomfort during this time. Ibuprofen is frequently prescribed to patients to alleviate pain and make them more comfortable while they recover. However, speak to your dentist before taking any sort 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 the first 24 hours of your recovery period, avoid eating anything hard, sticky, or chewy. 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 a week or so, the crown may need to be adjusted for it to fit properly. In this case, you should schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist.
Dental crowns should be cared for the same way as natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings, as necessary. To keep your teeth healthy and your crown in good working order, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene daily. Dental crowns can last for many years if they are maintained properly.