Getting a dental crown is a significant step toward restoring your smiles appearance and function. Whether its protecting a weakened tooth, restoring a broken tooth, or enhancing aesthetics, a dental crown is an investment in your oral health. However, the longevity of your crown depends heavily on how well you care for it immediately after placement and over the long term.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, we want every patient to enjoy a stress-free experience with their new crown. This comprehensive post crown placement mouth care checklist ensures you maintain optimal oral health while protecting your dental investment.
Understanding the Importance of Crown Aftercare
A dental crown covers and protects a natural tooth structure. While highly durable, crowns are not immune to damage or complications if not cared for properly. Proper post-placement care minimizes discomfort, prevents infection, and ensures your crown lasts for years.
Immediate Aftercare: What to Do Right After Crown Placement
1. Manage Numbness Carefully
After the procedure, your mouth may still be numb from the anesthetic. Be cautious when eating or drinking to avoid accidentally biting your cheeks, tongue, or lips.
2. Wait Before Eating
Avoid eating until the numbness fully wears off. This helps prevent accidental injuries and allows the dental cement to set firmly.
3. Choose Soft Foods Initially
For the first 24 to 48 hours, opt for soft, non-sticky foods. This helps reduce pressure on the new crown as it fully bonds to your tooth.
Post Crown Placement Mouth Care Checklist
1. Brush and Floss Gently but Thoroughly
Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste. When flossing, slide the floss out rather than snapping it upwards to avoid dislodging the crown.
2. Avoid Hard, Crunchy, or Sticky Foods
Protect your crown by avoiding:
Hard foods like ice, nuts, and hard candies
Sticky items like chewing gum or caramel
Tough foods like crusty bread or chewy meats
These can crack, loosen, or damage the crown over time.
3. Be Mindful of Temperature Sensitivity
Its normal to experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold foods after crown placement. This typically subsides within a few days to weeks. Use toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth if needed.
4. Monitor Your Bite
If your bite feels uneven, or the crown feels too high or uncomfortable, contact McLevin Dental Clinic promptly. An improperly aligned crown can cause jaw pain, headaches, or further dental issues if not corrected.
5. Avoid Using Teeth as Tools
Never use your crowned tooth (or any tooth) to open packages, bite nails, or crack nutshells. This puts unnecessary stress on both the crown and the natural tooth underneath.
6. Address Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
If you grind your teeth at night, discuss a nightguard with your dentist. Bruxism can significantly shorten the lifespan of a crown by causing fractures or loosening the bond.
7. Attend Regular Dental Check-Ups
Routine dental visits are critical. Our team at McLevin Dental Clinic checks the integrity of your crown, ensures its fitting properly, and performs professional cleanings to maintain overall oral health.
Common Issues to Watch For After Crown Placement
1. Temporary Discomfort or Sensitivity
Mild discomfort or temperature sensitivity is common but should diminish within a few days.
2. Crown Feeling Too High or Tight
If the crown feels like its interfering with your bite or chewing, this indicates it may need minor adjustments.
3. Gum Irritation Around the Crown
Slight gum irritation can occur right after placement. Maintain gentle cleaning around the gum line to prevent inflammation from turning into infection.
4. Loose Crown or Pain While Biting
These are not normal and require immediate attention. Contact McLevin Dental Clinic if you experience any of these issues.
Long-Term Care Tips for Dental Crowns
Continue brushing twice daily and flossing daily.
Use fluoride mouthwash to help protect the natural tooth beneath the crown.
Stick to a balanced diet that supports gum and tooth health.
Wear protective gear like mouthguards during sports.
Use a nightguard if you are prone to grinding.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With excellent care, porcelain, ceramic, and zirconia crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, and in many cases, even longer. Avoiding harmful habits like chewing on hard objects and maintaining regular dental care significantly extends their lifespan.
When to Contact McLevin Dental Clinic
Contact our dental team immediately if you experience:
Persistent pain after crown placement
A loose, chipped, or cracked crown
Increased gum swelling or redness around the crown
Sensitivity that worsens instead of improving
Timely intervention prevents minor issues from becoming costly repairs.
Protect Your Investment Were Here to Help
A dental crown restores not just your tooth but also your confidence in your smile. Following this post-crown placement mouth care checklist ensures your dental restoration remains strong, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for years to come.
At McLevin Dental Clinic, were committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health at every stage of your dental journey. Whether its your first crown or part of a larger smile makeover, our caring team is always available to guide you through proper care and answer any concerns.
Book Your Follow-Up Appointment Today
Ready for your post-placement check-up or have questions about your new crown? Contact McLevin Dental Clinic today. Lets ensure your smile stays strong, healthy, and beautiful.