Your Hamilton Invisalign® Provider
If you receive a dental crown, the recovery time typically lasts for a few days at most. Although it is normal for patients to experience some sensitivity or discomfort during this time, the irritation and inflammation associated with the procedure will subside fairly quickly in most cases.
Numbness From Anaesthetic
Your dentist may use a local anesthetic during your procedure, and the numbing effect might last for a few hours afterward before gradually wearing off.
Keep your mouth as safe as possible when you're eating, and stay away from hot foods and liquids to avoid injuring your mouth while it's numb.
You may also experience some minor bruising and inflammation around the injection site, but this will subside on its own after a few days and does not usually warrant the use of any additional medications.
Pain & Discomfort
It isn't out of the ordinary to experience some minor discomfort and pain after the numbness from the anesthesia has worn off. This will typically subside within a few days, or at the most, a few weeks after the procedure is completed.
If you are experiencing discomfort after this time, you should consider taking over-the-counter pain medication to help manage the discomfort during this time. Ibuprofen is frequently prescribed to patients to alleviate pain and make them more comfortable while they recover. However, speak to your dentist before taking any type of pain medication.
As a result of the irritation caused by the dental cement (which is used to secure the crown), you may notice some sensitivity to the gums surrounding the restored tooth.
Over the course of the next few weeks, if the pain you are experiencing does not subside or becomes more severe, please contact our office to schedule an appointment for further evaluation.
Life With Your New Dental Crown
During the first 24 hours of your recovery period, refrain from eating anything hard, sticky, or chewy. During the days and weeks following your procedure, you can gradually reintroduce these foods into your diet.
It isn't abnormal for a new crown to feel a little strange at first – almost as if it doesn't quite fit properly. Once your mouth has time to get used to the new restoration, you will most likely stop noticing it altogether.
That being said, if your bite does not feel normal after about a week, the crown may need to be adjusted for it to be properly fitted. If this occurs, be sure to schedule a follow-up appointment with your dentist.
Dental crowns should be cared for the same way as natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular visits to the dentist for checkups and cleanings, as necessary. To keep your teeth healthy and your crown in good working order, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene daily. If you maintain and care for your dental crown properly, it should last for many years.