For broken or decayed individual teeth, dental crown treatments offer a strong, affordable option. But if you’ve recently had one put in, you know it can require some getting used to. The first few days directly following the treatment are the most critical to the healing process, so it’s important to know exactly what to do.
Continue reading to learn the answers to the most common questions regarding the aftereffects of dental crown treatments and improve the speed and comfort of your recovery.
Why is my Mouth Still Numb After My Treatment?
The numbing anesthetic your dentist used during your procedure can last for a while. It’s formulated to keep a patient from feeling pain for the entire treatment, and the type and dose must be weighed carefully based on your needs.
Depending on which type of anesthetic was used, your numbness could last anywhere from 30 minutes to 48 hours. Typically, the effects will wear off after an hour or so, but every patient is different. Don’t panic if your mouth is numb for a few hours, or even the rest of the day after your treatment.
While under the effects of the anesthetic, be careful when eating. If you eat solid foods, you could accidentally bite your lips, cheeks, or tongue without realizing it. Try to stick to softer foods like yogurt or warm (not hot) soup until your mouth has gone back to normal.
Why do I Still Feel Pain and Sensitivity?
After your crown is placed, it’s normal to still feel a little unpleasantness around the affected tooth and gums. The tooth being replaced had to be slimmed down with specialized instruments, and the placement itself can be irritating for the surrounding tissues.
To alleviate this, make sure to gently clean around your new crown with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque or food particles, and rinse with a warm salt solution. The irritation should begin to subside shortly after. If it persists, you can also try over-the-counter pain medications like Ibuprofen.
If the pain continues for several weeks, or if it becomes severe, contact your dentist for an investigation. There could be an unforeseen complication that will need to be addressed.
Additional Aftercare for Dental Crown Treatments
Knowing how to take care of your crown after the treatment can help you avoid any of the unpleasant aftereffects mentioned above. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Here’s a list of things to avoid while you’re recovering from your dental crown treatment.
- Avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown is before the underlying cement is set. Otherwise, you could shift it out of place.
- Don’t eat crunchy or gritty food within a few days after the procedure. This could cause pain in the capped tooth while it recovers and particles could get into the gums, irritating them.
- When flossing, don’t pull the floss too hard. This may catch underneath the crown, potentially pulling it off before it’s settled.
Following these tips will ensure that you don’t cause extra stress to your sensitive teeth and gums. Less distress to the affected area will equate to a smoother, faster recovery. Your mouth is a system that works together to keep you fed and socializing. The least you can do is show it some kindness in return.
About the Practice
Dr. Salayta and Dr. Schuyler started their journey into dentistry for the same reason—helping people lead healthier lives with more confidence. Both are active members of the Oklahoma Dental Association, a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of skilled dentists and cutting-edge dental technology. Between them is over two decades of experience and education. If you want to see how comfortable a trip to the dentist can be at Elwood Avenue Dental, visit their website here or call (918) 299-2298.