Getting a new dental crown is a major step toward bringing strength, comfort, and shape back to your tooth. But the work isn’t over when you leave the dentist’s office. How you treat your crown in the days and weeks after placement makes a huge difference in how well it holds up. Good aftercare keeps your bite strong, your gums healthy, and helps your crown feel like it’s always been part of your smile. Here’s what you can expect and some practical advice you can put to use right away.

What Happens After You Get a Crown

For the first few days, don’t be surprised if you notice some mild sensitivity. Hot or cold drinks, biting down hard foods, or even brushing near the gumline might feel a little strange. That’s normal. Usually, your mouth just needs some time to get used to the new addition.

If your dentist used anesthesia, wait until the numbness wears off before you eat. You’d be surprised how easy it is to bite your cheek or tongue when you can’t fully feel what you’re doing.

Your crown should feel firm and smooth. If you feel any sharp edges, pain when you bite down, or if your bite seems off, don’t just put up with it. Call your dentist and get it checked out.

How to Take Care of Your Crown Every Day

Daily care makes all the difference. While crowns don’t get cavities, the tooth right under the crown edge still can.

Here’s what helps:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush
• Clean gently along the gumline (that’s where plaque likes to hide)
• Floss carefully using a slide-out motion—don’t snap the floss down hard
• Stick with non-abrasive toothpaste to keep the crown surface smooth

These small steps help your dental crown last longer and keep your gums happy.

Eating and Chewing Safely

Crowns are sturdy, but you still want to go easy at first. Stick to softer foods for the first few days while the cement sets. Skip hard candies, ice, and sticky foods like gum—those can damage your crown or even loosen it over time. If you grind or clench your teeth, ask your dentist about a night guard. It’s a simple way to protect your new crown while you sleep.

Dealing with Sensitivity or Soreness

If your tooth feels sensitive, try a sensitive toothpaste and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid super-hot or super-cold drinks until things settle down. If you notice pain that sticks around, pressure when biting, or any swelling, don’t wait it out. These could be signs your bite needs adjusting or that something else is going on.

Crowns can last for 15 years if you take care of them and keep up with regular checkups, according to the American Dental Association. So if anything feels unusual, don’t put off calling your dentist.

Why Routine Dental Visits Still Matter

Just like your natural teeth, crowns need regular checkups. Your dentist checks the edges of the crown, the gums around it, and makes sure your bite lines up properly.

Professional cleanings also help clear away plaque that brushing can miss, protecting your crown and the teeth nearby.

When to Call Your Dentist

• Get in touch with your dentist if:
• You feel pain when you bite down
• The crown feels loose or uneven
• There’s swelling or bleeding near the crown
• Sensitivity gets worse instead of better

Catching minor problems early prevents them from becoming extensive issues.

Your crown does its job when you take care of your oral health. Keep up with daily care, eat thoughtfully, and don’t skip your dental visits. Dental crown care isn’t complicated, but it does take a little attention. If you ever have questions or if something changes, reach out to our dental team. Protect your crown, and you’ll protect your smile.

FAQs

How long does a dental crown usually last?

With proper oral hygiene and routine dental visits, many crowns last ten years or longer, depending on bite forces and daily habits.

Can a crowned tooth still get cavities?

Yes. The crown itself cannot decay, but the natural tooth underneath can develop decay at the edges if plaque builds up.

Is sensitivity normal after crown placement?

Mild sensitivity is common for a short period. Your dentist should evaluate ongoing or worsening discomfort.

Can I floss around a dental crown?

Flossing is essential. Slide the floss out gently rather than pulling upward to avoid stressing the crown margins.

Do crowns require special cleaning tools?

Most people only need a soft toothbrush and routine flossing. Some benefit from interdental brushes or water flossers based on gum health.