A dental crown, also known as a cap, is placed over a tooth to restore its size, shape, and function. If you have a damaged tooth or a cavity that’s too big for a filling, a dental cap may be the appropriate solution. A permanent crown takes a couple of weeks to make in the laboratory, so your dentist will place a temporary cap over your tooth in the meantime. Here’s a guide for taking care of each type to ensure a speedy recovery.

Temporary Crown Aftercare

Avoid Sticky & Hard Foods

Temporary dental caps aren’t as strong as permanent ones, so watch what you eat. Sticky or hard foods, such as caramel and nuts, can crack or pull the cap off your tooth, so take them out of your diet while you wait for the permanent cap to be made.

Resume Normal Brushing

Continue to brush your temporary crown twice a day to reduce the risk of cavities. However, don’t brush too hard around it, as too much jostling could pull it off.

If your temporary cap falls out, the dentist can re-cement it. Leaving the cap off can make the tooth underneath more sensitive to hot and cold temperatures.

Permanent Crown Maintenance

Don’t Eat Sticky Foods Right Away

Stay away from sticky foods for the first 24 hours after the permanent cap is placed to give the cement time to set. Once the cap is firmly in place, you should be able to go back to your normal diet.

Avoid Biting Hard Objects

Dental caps aren't as strong as your natural teeth and can crack if too much biting force is used. To keep your restoration in good shape, don’t bite down on hard objects, such as pens and ice cubes.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Although the permanent crown isn’t a natural tooth, bacteria and plaque can still accumulate around it. Continue to brush your teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste and floss every day to prevent oral health issues.

If you need a dental crown, turn to the professionals at Enterprise Dental Associates. They’ve been providing compassionate family dentistry services throughout Coffee County and Dale County, AL, for over 37 years and strive to maintain lasting relationships with patients. From routine cleanings to teeth whitening, they provide a wide range of services and use state-of-the-art equipment in a comfortable environment. For more information about their services, call (334)-347-9564 or visit their website.