Permanent Crowns

Caring for Your Permanent Crown

Your new crown is built to last for many years, and a little care in the first day or two (plus good habits long-term) will help it stay strong, comfortable, and looking great. Here is what to keep in mind after your appointment.

Hold Off on Eating and Drinking

For the first 1 to 2 hours after your crown is placed, avoid eating or drinking anything. This gives the cement time to set up fully and lock the crown into place.

Ease Into Your Normal Diet

For the rest of the first 24 hours, stick with softer or cooler foods and try not to chew directly on the crowned tooth. Once the cement has fully cured, you can return to eating like you normally would.

If You Feel Any Soreness

A bit of tenderness right after your appointment is normal. An over-the-counter pain reliever taken according to the package instructions is usually plenty to keep you comfortable.

Brushing and Flossing

Keep up with your usual brushing and flossing routine, just go a little gentler around the new crown for the first few days. Treating the area with care helps everything settle in nicely.

Sensitivity to Hot and Cold

Don't be surprised if the tooth feels a little sensitive to temperature for a few days. This usually fades on its own. If it sticks around or starts getting worse instead of better, give us a call so we can take a look.

Foods to Be Careful With

Even after the cement has fully set, hard and sticky foods can put extra stress on a crown. Things like ice, hard candy, caramel, and chewy bread are best enjoyed in moderation to keep your crown in great shape.

Keep an Eye on It

Pay attention to how the crown feels day to day. If you notice it shifting, feeling loose, or anything else that seems off, reach out to our team so we can check it out before it becomes a bigger issue.

Stay on Top of Follow-Ups

Make sure to come in for any scheduled follow-up visits. A quick check lets us confirm the crown is seated well, your bite feels right, and everything is functioning the way it should.

Rinses if Recommended

If we suggested a prescription mouthwash or warm salt water rinses to support healing around the gumline, use them as directed. A simple salt water rinse (½ teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) is gentle and effective.

Protect It from Grinding

If you grind or clench your teeth, especially at night, talk with us about a custom nightguard. Constant grinding pressure can wear down even a brand-new crown, and a nightguard is one of the best investments you can make to protect your dental work.

Keep Up with Routine Visits

Regular checkups and cleanings are just as important as ever. They help us catch small issues early and keep both your crown and the rest of your smile healthy for the long haul.

Reach Out Anytime

If you run into ongoing pain, lasting sensitivity, or your crown ever feels loose, give Perfect Smile Dental Care a call right away. Most issues are easy to fix when caught early.

With a little care and your usual good oral hygiene habits, your permanent crown can serve you well for many years. If anything ever feels off, the team at Perfect Smile Dental Care is here whenever you need us.