If you chipped, cracked, or broke a tooth, you may need a dental crown, also known as a cap. These tooth-shaped caps repair, restore, and strengthen damaged teeth, and they can last up to 15 years with the right care. Even though crowns are made of protective materials, you still need to care for them at home, including proper oral care, taking extra care when eating, and seeing a dentist regularly.
While we don’t provide crown services at Rockland Dental Specialists, we can give you the knowledge you need to properly care for your crown when you get home. Our professional team has over 24 years of experience providing periodontal services, implants, and endodontics, and we support our patients before, during, and after their treatment. In our state-of-the-art facilities, we utilize the latest technologies and techniques to give patients the top-notch care and attention they deserve. With our compassionate, personalized approach, patients trust us to provide the guidance they need to relieve discomfort treatment and ensure it lasts as long as possible.
4 At-Home Care Tips for Crowns
After getting a crown, many patients return to their regular activities right away, but symptoms like soreness and sensitivity are common and can last up to a few weeks. Taking the following steps can help relieve these symptoms and keep your crown in good condition:
Adjust Oral Hygiene Habits
You can brush and floss your teeth as usual immediately after getting a crown, but you may notice the area is more sensitive than normal. In this case, you may need to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth, along with a soft-bristle toothbrush. An antibacterial mouthwash can also prevent plaque and bacteria from damaging the crown. Additionally, if you use your teeth to rip open packages, tear off tags, or chew ice, you may want to stop these habits, as they cause damage to your crown.
Take Extra Care When Eating
When getting a crown, you will likely receive a local anesthetic, which may take a few hours after the treatment to wear off completely. Therefore, waiting a few hours before eating is recommended to avoid biting your cheeks, tongue, and lips. After the initial recovery period, avoiding extremely hard, crunchy, or sticky foods helps prevent the crown from being pulled out or damaged.
Alleviate Soreness
You may feel soreness in your gums and the surrounding area after getting a crown. Over-the-counter medication and cold compresses can help alleviate this discomfort. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water can also help with persistent soreness.
Attend Regular Dental Visits
One of the best ways to ensure the healing process is going well is to see your dentist regularly. Our attentive professionals closely monitor your crown and the surrounding area to identify any complications and give instructions for at-home care. Getting routine professional cleanings also helps keep your crown clean and free of bacteria.
Contact the Knowledgeable Team at Rockland Dental Specialists in New City, NY Today
Caring for your crown when you get home is just as important as getting the treatment itself. However, you may not know the right steps to take to ensure your results are long-lasting. With the proper oral hygiene habits, extra care when eating, regular dental visits, and pain management, you can feel more comfortable and satisfied with your smile.
At Rockland Dental Specialists, we always prioritize your best interests, providing the utmost care and attention you deserve. Our attentive professionals work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan based on your needs and preferences. Give us a call at (845) 400-9205 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and learn more about caring for dental crowns.
