Dental crown treatment requires attention to certain factors to achieve a successful and long-lasting result. After the treatment process, it is necessary not only to pay attention to oral hygiene but also to consider many factors from eating habits to the use of dental floss. Developing regular habits from the very first days of the crown treatment directly affects the success and longevity of the procedure. In this content, we will examine the precautions to be taken after dental crown treatment. Here are the details…
How Does the Post-Dental Crown Process Work?
The healing process that starts immediately after the dental crown procedure varies from person to person but is generally completed within a few weeks. During this period, mild sensitivity and temporary discomforts in adapting to the new structure inside the mouth are normal. Observing the precautions after dental crown treatment is crucial for a smooth and comfortable healing period. Especially avoiding some mistakes in the early days will directly extend the lifespan of the crowns in the future.
The prominent stages in the post-dental crown process are as follows:
- First 24 Hours: There may be a foreign body sensation in the mouth. Attention should be paid to hot-cold temperature balance during this period.
- First Week: Lip and tongue adaptation to the crown develops. Slight soreness and pressure sensation in the gums are considered normal.
- Temporary Cementation Period: In some treatments, temporary crowns may be applied. During this period, it is important to avoid hard and sticky foods.
- Adaptation Period (1-2 Weeks): The gums fully settle, and sensitivity decreases. The person begins to feel the applied crown as their own tooth.
- Check-up Period (6th Week – 3rd Month): With doctor’s controls, the adaptation of the crown to the jaw and tooth structure is evaluated.
Complying with the precautions after dental crown treatment minimizes possible complaints. Since this period involves a certain adaptation process, it is very important to follow the doctor’s recommendations.
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Precautions to Take After Dental Crown Treatment
To ensure success and long-lasting use after crown treatment, it is very important to comply with the recommendations given by the doctor. In addition, maintaining oral hygiene, avoiding inappropriate foods, and limiting smoking and tobacco products are among the important habits to be considered.
The precautions to take after dental crown treatment are as follows:
1- Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene is the most important factor among the precautions after dental crown treatment. This element, which is vital for oral and dental health, prevents bacterial accumulation and accelerates the healing process of the tissues around the teeth. Insufficient oral cleaning may cause plaque and tartar buildup at the edges of the crowns, decay of the natural teeth under the crowns, and gum inflammations. Therefore, oral hygiene must be ensured after the treatment.
Practical suggestions for hygiene after crown treatment can be evaluated as follows:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Adopt additional care routines to keep the crown surroundings clean.
- Regularly use the antibacterial mouthwash recommended by your doctor.
- Avoid applying excessive pressure during brushing, as this can cause gum recession.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly after meals to prevent food debris accumulation.
If a regular oral care routine is not established, bleeding, swelling, and redness may occur in the gums. This condition negatively affects the lifespan of the crowns and may also damage your healthy teeth.
2- Brushing Habit
Preventing bacterial growth after dental treatments is of great importance. Similarly, in dental crown treatment, a regular tooth brushing habit must be developed to prevent bacterial proliferation after the procedure. Some patients may hesitate to brush their teeth after the procedure fearing damage to the crowns. However, it is necessary to use soft toothbrushes as recommended by your dentist. Especially brushing twice a day is advised to prevent plaque and tartar formation around the crown edges.
3- Use of Dental Floss and Interdental Cleaning
After crown treatment, patients should not limit themselves to brushing only. At the same time, interdental cleaning using dental floss is necessary. This factor, often overlooked but equally important, is among the precautions to take after dental crown treatment.
Regularly cleaning between teeth with dental floss or interdental brushes can prevent possible decay and plaque buildup. Therefore, oral hygiene must be maintained after meals, and daily flossing and interdental cleaning should be performed.
4- Food Choices During Temporary Crown Period
Food selection during the temporary crown period is also very important among the precautions after dental crown treatment. Since crowns are not permanently cemented during this period, it is necessary to avoid sticky and hard foods. Ignoring this rule may cause crowns to become dislodged. Avoid nuts such as walnuts and hazelnuts, as well as sticky foods like chewing gum and Turkish delight. Additionally, very hot or very cold foods should be avoided.
5- Soreness and Sensitivity
It is normal to experience soreness and sensitivity after dental crown treatment. These complaints are generally accepted as normal to a certain extent because the oral structure is not yet accustomed to the new crowns.
To minimize soreness and sensitivity, you can:
- Avoid hot and cold foods during the first days.
- Use sensitivity toothpaste if prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid overly hard toothbrushes.
- Limit consumption of acidic and sugary foods.
- Use mild painkillers if prescribed by your doctor.
These symptoms usually subside within a few days after the treatment. However, if there is prolonged severe pain, burning sensation, or sensitivity, you should definitely inform your dentist.
6- Foods to Avoid
Another important precaution after dental crown treatment is to avoid certain foods. This factor directly affects the lifespan and success of the treatment and is crucial for minimizing potential risks. Foods to avoid include hard-shelled nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, etc.), hard candies, acidic drinks (carbonated beverages, orange juice, fruit juices, etc.), and sticky foods.
7- Regular Check-ups
After the dental crown procedure, regular check-ups should not be neglected. This factor affects treatment success and is especially important for minimizing potential risks, preventing complications, and early diagnosis. Since crowns are made from different materials compared to natural teeth, small wear or edge problems may occur over time. Generally, dental check-ups are performed every 6 months to evaluate the adaptation of the crowns to the gums, chewing function, and overall oral health.
Regular check-ups after dental crown treatment also enable the dentist to detect early any decay, gum problems, or loosening of the crown. Early intervention is one of the most critical factors in dental diseases. Therefore, patients should not skip regular dental visits and should comply with the recommended oral care routines.
