Whether you just had a temporary crown placed while your permanent one is being made, or you’ve just had your final crown bonded, our dental crowns post op instructions McKinney patients can follow provide a general look at what to expect as your mouth adjusts.
The First 24 to 72 Hours
Some mild soreness in the gum around the crowned tooth, along with sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is common for the first day or two. This is typically related to the tooth preparation and settles as the area heals. If you’re wearing a temporary crown, mild sensitivity is especially normal since temporaries aren’t meant to seal as tightly as a permanent restoration.
Your bite may feel slightly different at first simply because the shape of the tooth has changed. This usually feels normal within a few days; if it still feels distinctly high or uneven after that, it’s worth having it checked rather than waiting it out, since a bite that’s off can put extra stress on the tooth.
Diet and Activity
If you have a temporary crown, avoid sticky or chewy foods like caramel or gum, which can pull the temporary loose, and try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth when possible. Hard foods and ice should also be avoided on that side until your permanent crown is in place. Once your permanent crown is bonded, most patients can return to normal eating fairly quickly, though it’s still smart to be a little cautious with very hard foods for the first day while everything settles.
There’s generally no activity restriction with a crown procedure. Most people return to their normal routine the same day, aside from being mindful of what and how they’re chewing near the treated tooth.
Managing Discomfort and Sensitivity
Mild soreness or temperature sensitivity around a new crown can usually be managed with an over-the-counter pain reliever taken as directed on the label. Using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can also help ease temperature sensitivity in the days after your appointment. Gently rinsing with warm salt water can soothe irritated gum tissue near the crown if needed.
Contact Our Office If…
- A temporary or permanent crown feels loose, shifts, or comes off
- Your bite still feels noticeably uneven after a few days
- Pain increases rather than easing, or isn’t relieved by pain medication
- You notice swelling, a bad taste, or other signs of infection around the tooth
- Sensitivity to hot or cold is severe or doesn’t improve with time
A Note on This Guidance
This page is general guidance and does not replace the personalized instructions your dentist gave you at your appointment. For more resources, visit our Patient Center, or learn more about dental crowns at Illume Dental.
Questions About Your New Crown?
If anything about your new crown doesn’t feel right, call our McKinney office or request an appointment online and we’ll get you taken care of.
