You should care for your dental crown by keeping up with good oral hygiene on a daily basis, avoiding certain kinds of foods, and using a nightguard if you grind your teeth. Aftercare following a crown placement falls under several different categories, which we’ll cover. You may have some sensitivity for a couple of weeks after your procedure, and pain or tenderness for a few days. This is normal and will resolve shortly. You can take over-the-counter pain medication if your mouth hurts after a crown procedure.
Foods You Should Avoid
If you’ve gotten dental crowns in Tampa, FL, there are certain foods you should stay away from, including:
- Really sticky foods like candy, specifically taffy or caramel
- Extremely hard foods like certain nuts
- Ice cubes (chewing them)
- Popcorn with kernels
These foods may cause damage to your crown or pull it off completely.
Oral Hygiene is Key
There are teeth cleaning routines that you can practice in order to keep your crown or crowns in good condition. Brush your teeth twice a day (at least), floss once a day, use mouthwash, ask your dentist about a mouthguard if you’re a teeth grinder, and make sure you get regular dental cleanings and exams at your dentist!
If you notice that your crown is loose, has cracks or chips, or is hurting your mouth due to sharp edges, you should give your dentist a call right away.