7 Must-Know Instructions for Aftercare of Dental Crowns
Follow the aftercare guidelines listed below to ensure your dental crown stays in place and functions properly. Remember to talk with your dentist if at any moment you have concerns or you’re experiencing any problems with your dental crown.
1. Take Pain Medication as Prescribed
After a dental crown procedure, you may experience discomfort or pain. You’ll likely be prescribed pain medication by your dentist to help manage the discomfort. Take the medication as directed and follow your dentist's instructions for managing the pain for the best results.
2. Avoid Certain Foods
Avoid foods that can damage your dental crown. These include hard, crunchy, or sticky foods, such as nuts, popcorn, and candy. Hard or sticky foods can cause the crown to come loose or even break. It's also best recommended to avoid very hot or very cold foods, as these can cause sensitivity or discomfort.
3. Use Over-The-Counter Mouthwash
To help keep your mouth clean and healthy after a dental crown procedure, use an over-the-counter fluoride-based mouthwash twice daily. This will help to kill bacteria and prevent tooth decay. Rinse your mouth with the mouthwash as directed, spitting it out instead of swallowing.
4. Brush and Floss Your Teeth Regularly
It's important to continue brushing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis after a dental crown procedure. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day. Be sure to floss at least once a day to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth. Use caution when brushing and flossing near your dental crown, as the area may be sensitive.
5. Avoid Using Tobacco Products
Smoking or using tobacco products can cause problems with dental crowns. Chemicals found in tobacco can stain the crown, while the heat from smoking can cause the crown to become loose. It's best to avoid smoking or using tobacco products altogether, but if you must use them, avoid doing so for at least 24 hours after the dental crown procedure.
6. Attend Follow-Up Appointments
After a dental crown procedure, it's important to attend follow-up appointments with your dentist. These appointments will allow your dentist to check the fit and function of the crown, along with making any needed adjustments. Follow-up appointments also serve as a great opportunity to ask questions or raise any concerns you may have about the crown or your oral health.
7. Use Good Oral Hygiene Habits
Good oral hygiene habits go a long way to maintaining the health of your dental crown. In conjunction with brushing and flossing regularly, avoid chewing on hard objects, such as ice or pens, and avoid clenching or grinding your teeth. These habits can cause damage to the crown and can even lead to other oral health problems.
