Recovering from a Dental Crown

If you’ll be getting your first dental crown, you likely have a lot of questions. Dental crowns may seem intimidating, but the truth is that they’re nothing to stress about.  In fact, the entire process of getting one is easier than you might think. Here’s what you can expect from your new crown.

What is a Dental Crown?

Think of a dental crown as a deluxe filling.  It is a restoration that fits over your existing tooth like a cap and is permanently cemented into place. Because it covers the tooth, it can repair a larger amount of damage or decay. It can also restore cracked or broken teeth.

How Are Dental Crowns Installed?

To get a dental crown, an impression of your tooth first must be made by your dentist. Once this model is completed, your tooth is then prepared. First, any damage or decay will be removed so that the portion remaining is healthy. It is then filed into a shape that is easy for the crown to fit over and secure to, and a temporary crown will be attached until the permanent one is back from the lab. In about two weeks when it is ready, you will return to the dentist to have it cemented to your tooth.

Temporary Dental Crown Care

Following your initial appointment, your tooth may experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days. This is normal and should be easily treated with over-the-counter pain medication. Caring for your temporary crown is also important, as this is what protects your tooth from damage until the permanent one is attached. Thus, be sure to keep it safe with the following tips:

• Avoid chewing with that side of the mouth
• Do not eat anything too sticky, chewy, or crunchy until your permanent crown is in place
• Do not floss vertically around it, as this can cause it to come off

Getting Your Permanent Dental Crown

Once your permanent crown is delivered to your dentist’s office, you will be scheduled to return to have it placed. This process will not take long and following your appointment you will be able to immediately return to your daily activities. You can even resume your regular diet.

Caring for your new crown is easy, too. Just treat it as you would any other tooth. Brush it twice a day, floss at least once a day, and continue to see your dentist twice a year for your regular, semi-annual exams and cleanings.

Remember, getting a crown may seem a little overwhelming at first, but it’s a very common restoration and it will provide you with many benefits, including protecting your tooth, restoring your chewing capabilities, and blending naturally in with the rest of your teeth.

About Dr. Butler

Dr. Caroll Butler has known he wanted to be a dentist since he was in junior high, and his unwavering dedication to the field has remained strong ever since. Dr. Butler enjoys helping patients achieve their best oral health ever, and instilling in them the belief that caring for their smile is nothing to be afraid of.

To schedule an appointment for a dental crown, please visit our website, or call us today at 830-257-4900.