Aftercare
Aftercare for a Dental Crown
After a crown is placed, the tooth may feel slightly sensitive for a few days while the gums and tooth settle. If you have a temporary crown while a lab-made crown is completed, it needs gentle care because it is held with temporary cement. Once the final crown is in place, you care for it like your natural teeth.
How do you care for a temporary crown?
- Chew on the other side of your mouth when you can.
- Avoid sticky and hard foods, such as caramel, gum, nuts, and ice.
- Floss by pulling the floss out to the side so the temporary stays in place.
- Brush the area gently.
If the temporary crown comes off, keep it and call the office so it can be placed again.
What is normal with a new crown?
Mild sensitivity to hot and cold and slight tenderness of the gums are common for a few days. Your bite should feel even, with the crown meeting the opposite teeth at the same time as your other teeth. If the crown feels high when you bite, Dr. Lee can adjust it.
How do you care for your crown long term?
Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily, paying attention to the gumline around the crown, where decay can begin on the natural tooth beneath it. Avoid chewing ice and other very hard objects. Regular check-ups let Dr. Lee examine the crown and the tooth that supports it.
When should you call the office?
Call the office if your bite feels uneven, if sensitivity keeps getting stronger, or if a crown feels loose or comes off. Call promptly for swelling or pain that keeps you awake.
Frequently asked questions
How long does sensitivity last after a crown?
Mild sensitivity usually eases within a few days to a couple of weeks. Lasting or increasing sensitivity should be checked.
Can I eat normally with a same-day crown?
A same-day crown is bonded at the visit, so you can eat once the numbness wears off. Dr. Lee will tell you if your tooth needs any extra care.
When is Smile Art open?
We are open Monday to Thursday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. If you are in pain or have swelling, call us right away.
Related pages
Sources
This guide follows the American Dental Association's patient guidance. It does not replace the instructions Dr. Lee gives you for your treatment, which come first.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.