Aesthetic General Dentistry's Post-Op Instructions for Dental Crowns

Post-Op Instructions

Immediately after your dental crown procedure, you may experience some discomfort and tenderness in the treated area. This is completely normal and should subside within a few days. To help with the healing process, our Frisco dentist recommends following these post-op instructions:

• Take Pain Medication: You may experience some pain or discomfort after the procedure. Our dentist will prescribe you with pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort.
• Avoid Chewing on the Treated Tooth: To ensure that your dental crown sets properly, be sure not to chew on the treated tooth for at least 24 hours. This will allow the crown to bond securely with your natural tooth.
• Be Gentle: For the first few days, it is important to be gentle when brushing and flossing around the treated area. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and try to avoid putting too much pressure on your teeth.
• Avoid Sticky or Hard Foods: During the initial healing phase, it is best to avoid sticky or hard foods that can put unnecessary pressure on your new dental crown.
• Keep the Area Clean: It is important to keep the area clean to prevent any infection. Rinse with warm salt water a few times a day and continue brushing and flossing as usual.
• Avoid Smoking: For smokers, it is critical to refrain from smoking for at least 24 hours following the procedure. Smoking can slow down healing and raise the likelihood of complications.
• Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions: Our Frisco dentist will give you personalized instructions based on your unique situation. Follow these guidelines to guarantee proper healing and long-term success of your dental crown.

Recovery Time

The length of time required for recovery after a dental crown procedure may differ based on the person and the complexity of the situation. For most people, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks for the area to fully heal and for any discomfort or swelling to subside. However, some patients may experience a longer or shorter recovery time.

During this period, it is important to continue following the post-operative instructions provided by our dentist. This ensures a speedy recovery and prevents any potential complications.

Pain Relief

To provide relief, your dentist may prescribe pain medication or suggest using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Along with medication, applying a cold compress to the affected area can alleviate swelling and provide relief. Just wrap a towel around an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas, then gently press it against your cheek for 10-15 minutes at a time.

Preventing Swelling and Bleeding

To prevent irritation in the area, it is advisable to steer clear of spicy and hot foods. Opt for softer foods that require minimal chewing. Keep the area clean and reduce inflammation by rinsing your mouth with warm saltwater as needed.  

If there is any bleeding, gently apply pressure on gauze pads over the surgical site and replace them every 30 minutes if needed. Smoking or using tobacco products should be avoided as they can impede the healing process.

Oral Hygiene Instructions

Proper oral hygiene is vital for a smooth recovery, as it helps prevent infections and complications. Here are some important tips to remember:

• Brush your teeth gently, avoiding the surgical area for the first day or two
• After the first few days, you can resume brushing the surgical area lightly with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Avoid flossing around the crown for at least a week to allow the gum tissue to heal properly
• Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash at least twice a day to keep bacteria at bay and promote healing

Follow-Up Appointments

Following your dental crown procedure, it is vital to attend all follow-up appointments scheduled by your dentist. These appointments allow your dentist to oversee your recovery and ensure proper healing. Additionally, X-rays may be taken to evaluate the crown’s fit and make any required modifications.

If you experience excessive pain or bleeding, contact us at Aesthetic General Dentistry of Frisco immediately. We are here to help and ensure a smooth recovery process.