A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dietary choices play a direct role in the success and comfort of the restoration following placement. Mindful choices are important for allowing the surrounding gum tissue to heal, preventing sensitivity, and protecting the crown from accidental damage or dislodgement.
Protecting the Temporary Crown
The initial period of care focuses on protecting the temporary crown, which is significantly more vulnerable than the final restoration. Temporary crowns are typically made from a less durable material, such as acrylic or resin, and are secured with a weaker, temporary dental cement. This weaker cement is used intentionally so the temporary crown can be easily removed when the permanent one is ready.
The greatest threat to a temporary crown comes from sticky foods, which can easily grip the restoration and pull it free from the tooth. Items like chewing gum, toffee, caramels, taffy, and any overly chewy candy should be strictly avoided until the permanent crown is cemented. The adhesive force of these foods can compromise the temporary seal, leading to crown loss.
Hard or crunchy foods also present a serious risk because the temporary material is prone to fracture or chipping under excessive biting force. This includes nuts, ice, hard candies, popcorn kernels, and very crusty breads. It is generally advised to chew all food primarily on the opposite side of the mouth from the temporary crown to minimize mechanical stress.
Furthermore, extremes in temperature can increase tooth sensitivity and potentially affect the temporary cement. Very hot liquids, such as steaming coffee or soup, and very cold items like ice cream should be consumed at lukewarm or moderate temperatures to avoid irritating the underlying tooth structure. Chewy foods, such as tough meats or bagels, require excessive grinding force that can loosen the crown or cause it to shift.
Recommended Soft Foods
Soft foods require minimal chewing and are gentle on the newly treated tooth and surrounding gums. These choices help minimize pressure on the crown and prevent sensitivity.
Excellent options include smooth, liquefied foods such as pureed soups, broths, and smoothies, which require little chewing. Ideal protein sources include scrambled eggs, yogurt, cottage cheese, and soft fish like cod or tilapia.
Soft, starchy foods like mashed potatoes, well-cooked pasta, and oatmeal are also well-tolerated and provide energy. When preparing food, cut it into small, manageable pieces to reduce the work required of your teeth. Ensure that any cooked food, especially vegetables, is steamed or boiled until very tender.
Adjusting After the Permanent Crown
The transition to the permanent crown marks a significant step, but caution is still necessary following the final cementation. Dentists typically recommend maintaining a soft or temperature-neutral diet for the initial 24 to 48 hours after the crown is bonded. This short-term restriction allows the permanent dental cement to fully set and achieve maximum strength.
Once the cement has cured, most dietary restrictions are lifted, and you can return to a normal diet. The permanent crown is designed to withstand normal chewing forces and function like a natural tooth. However, the permanent restoration is not indestructible, and certain habits pose a long-term risk to its integrity.
Avoid habits that create extreme stress, such as chewing on ice cubes, biting fingernails, or using your teeth to open packages. Hard items like whole nuts, hard candy, or popcorn kernels can still cause the crown to chip or fracture under sudden impact. Sticky, chewy foods should still be moderated to prevent the adhesive from failing over time.