A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a tooth damaged by decay, fracture, or a large filling. This restoration requires careful post-procedure attention to ensure the crown bonds properly to the underlying tooth structure. Following specific guidelines maximizes the longevity and effectiveness of the new dental work. Understanding these precautions protects the crown during the initial period of adjustment and healing.
Immediate Waiting Time for Temporary Crowns
The first stage of the crown procedure involves placing a temporary crown, which requires a specific waiting period before eating. Temporary restorations are secured using a temporary cement, a material intentionally designed to be weak so the dentist can easily remove the crown later. This cement needs time to fully set before it can withstand chewing forces.
Dentists generally recommend waiting between 30 minutes and one hour after placement before attempting to eat or drink. The chemical reaction that hardens the temporary cement proceeds slowly, and applying pressure too early can disrupt the initial bond. Chewing before the cement has cured significantly increases the risk of dislodgement.
The temporary cement is not as strong as permanent adhesive, making the crown susceptible to being pulled off by sticky foods or cracked by hard substances. The waiting period allows the cement to reach its maximum immediate strength, providing the best chance for the temporary crown to remain in place until the permanent one is ready.
Eating After Permanent Crown Placement
When the permanent crown is fitted, the waiting period before eating is often dictated by factors other than the cement itself. Modern permanent dental cements, such as resin-modified glass ionomer, typically cure very quickly, often within minutes of being placed. The cement bond is usually set well before the patient leaves the dental office.
The primary reason for delaying eating is the lingering effect of the local anesthetic used during the procedure. Numbness in the mouth, lips, and tongue can persist for several hours, depending on the type and amount of anesthetic administered. Chewing while numb poses a high risk of accidentally biting and injuring the soft tissues without realizing it.
It is advisable to wait until all sensation has fully returned before attempting to chew food. Once the numbness has subsided, the patient can accurately gauge the feel of the new crown and check their bite for any high spots or discomfort.
Dietary Restrictions During the First 48 Hours
Regardless of whether a temporary or permanent crown has been placed, the first 48 hours require heightened attention to dietary choices to protect the restoration. It is strongly recommended to chew only on the opposite side of the mouth from the newly placed crown for the first few days. This practice minimizes the direct forces applied to the restoration, allowing the underlying tooth and gums to settle without undue stress. Maintaining a diet of softer, non-abrasive foods for the first few days aids in the overall success and comfort of the new crown.
Foods and beverages to avoid include:
- Sticky foods: Items like caramel, taffy, or chewing gum can exert a strong pulling force. This mechanical stress can easily overcome the weaker temporary cement bond, potentially lifting the restoration off the tooth.
- Extremely hard foods: Consuming items such as nuts, ice, or hard candies must be avoided entirely. These generate concentrated impact forces that may fracture the porcelain or ceramic material of a new crown, leading to chipping or failure.
- Excessively hot or cold foods and beverages: Extreme temperature changes can cause expansion and contraction of dental materials. The underlying tooth may also be temporarily sensitive to thermal changes following the preparation and bonding process.
What to Do If Your Crown Feels Loose
A loose crown, particularly a temporary one, requires immediate attention to protect the prepared tooth underneath. If the restoration feels unstable or falls off, the first step is to carefully retrieve the crown to prevent swallowing or aspiration. The underlying tooth preparation is vulnerable to sensitivity, breakage, and further decay if left uncovered.
Contacting the dental office immediately is necessary to schedule re-cementation, as the crown must be properly re-bonded by a professional. In a situation where a dentist cannot be reached right away, a temporary measure can be taken using an over-the-counter dental adhesive or even a small amount of toothpaste to hold the crown in place. This home remedy is not a permanent solution and should only be used to stabilize the crown for a short period until a professional appointment is secured.
The prepared tooth should never be left exposed for an extended time. The proper seal provided by the crown prevents bacteria from entering and irritating the pulp. Keeping the crown and the tooth clean until the re-cementation appointment is crucial for maintaining the long-term health of the tooth structure.