Dental crowns are used to reshape and protect teeth that are misshapen or compromised by extensive decay, injury, or an intensive dental treatment like a root canal. If you’re scheduled to receive one soon, you’re probably wondering what you can expect during the recovery period. Here’s a brief guide to recovering after getting a dental crown, including what kind of discomfort you can expect and a few tips for relieving it.
You Can Expect Some Initial Numbness
When placing your dental crown, your dentist will use a local anesthetic to render the process completely painless. The effects of this treatment will begin to wear off after several hours, but it can be quite easy to bite or burn the numbed soft tissues in your mouth during this period. It’s best to refrain from enjoying hot liquids such as coffee or eating tough or crunchy foods until the anesthetic wears off to prevent this from happening. You can begin eating and drinking normally the day after receiving the dental crown after the anesthetic has worn off and the cement has solidified.
You Can Expect Some Discomfort for a While Afterward
After the anesthetic wears off, you may notice some discomfort that will last for several days or weeks as you get used to your altered tooth structure and the presence of the crown. This can usually be controlled with an over-the-counter pain reliever or a topical analgesic.
You may also notice some sensitivity in the gum tissue surrounding the treated tooth due to irritation caused by the dental cement. This can also usually be controlled with a topical analgesic or an over-the-counter pain reliever, but a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth may also be an effective solution.
How Can I Know if I Need to Talk to My Dentist?
It’s perfectly normal for a dental crown to feel strange for a while after receiving it, but this should diminish over time as you get used to wearing it. However, if your discomfort seems to not be getting better or is getting worse after several days, you should contact your dentist to explain the situation and receive guidance. In some cases, this worsening discomfort may be the result of an infection. In others, the crown may simply need to be adjusted.
Dental crowns can restore teeth to their original size, shape, appearance, and function after infection or injury. By knowing what to expect after treatment and how to deal with it, you can stay comfortable as you get used to your beautifully restored smile.
About the Author
Dr. Terri Alani earned her dental degree from the University of Texas Houston and continues to advance her education through postgraduate coursework. She is proud to be a member of the Greater Houston Dental Society, the Texas Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. Her office in Houston, TX, offers general, emergency, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry such as dental crowns. For more tips for staying comfortable after receiving a dental crown, contact her office online or dial (713) 621-5141.