Dental crowns can cover a natural tooth that has had a root canal or one that’s been damaged by injury or decay. Crowns are relatively easy to maintain, and there are few risks associated with treatment. Below, patients can look at more info on recovery, risks, and aftercare for crowns.
The Recovery Process
For several hours after having crowns placed, patients will have some degree of numbness of the mouth. Immediately after surgery, patients should avoid biting the tongue or the inside of the cheek to prevent injury. Once the numbness has faded, a patient may experience minor sensitivity to hot and cold or when biting on the crown area. Patients may wish to avoid very hot or very cold foods and drinks and chew on the opposite side for a few days to avoid discomfort. In most instances, sensitivity diminishes within a week of crown placement.
Aftercare With Crowns
After a patient has dental crowns, they can continue with a normal oral health regimen. It’s recommended that patients brush twice per day, floss daily, and see their dentist every six months.
Potential Risks of Dental Crowns
As with any procedure, there are certain risks associated with dental crowns. Although selecting a skilled, qualified dentist reduces the risk, problems may still occur. Complications may include:
1. Removal of healthy tooth parts. Prepping a tooth for a crown requires that some enamel be removed. In some cases, the enamel is healthy but is taken away to make space for the crown.
2. Sensitivity. With partial or completely metal crowns, sensitivity to hot and cold can happen. Teeth naturally contract and expand in response to temperature changes, but artificial components may react differently. Special toothpaste can be used to diminish this effect.
3. Allergic reactions. The dentist should do an allergy test before the procedure to avoid an adverse reaction to the crown material.
4. Tooth infection. If the crown is improperly sealed or if the damaged tooth part isn’t removed completely, decay and infection can spread. Moreover, a crown that’s not properly maintained can increase a patient’s risk for damage, disease and decay.
Dental crowns are an easy, convenient way for patients to get the smile they want. However, certain risks exist, and crowns must still be properly maintained. By learning about the procedure, patients can keep their crowns for years.
Contact Cary Dental Associates LLC, if you need dental crowns in Cary, IL.
