Post Operative Care Crown Instructions
Post Op – Crown
After receiving a crown, prioritize oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing, avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods for the first 24 hours, and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper fit and function.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of post-care instructions for a crown:
Diet:
Avoid eating and drinking for the first 3 hours.
Initial Period (First 24-48 Hours):
Avoid: Hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods like nuts, ice, hard candy, and chewing gum.
Focus on: Soft foods like yogurt, cooked vegetables, and soft cheeses.
Chew on the opposite side: If possible, chew on the side of your mouth that doesn’t have the new crown.
Avoid hot or cold foods: Your mouth may be sensitive, so steer clear of extreme temperatures.
Oral Hygiene:
Brush gently: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Floss carefully: Be gentle when flossing around the crown, especially for the first few days.
Rinse with warm salt water: If you experience any discomfort or swelling, rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) several times a day.
Pain Management:
Over-the-counter pain relievers: If you experience any pain, take over-the-counter pain relievers like Panadol or Ibuprofen as directed.
Contact your dentist: If the pain is severe or persistent, contact your dentist immediately.
Other:
Avoid smoking: Smoking can stain your new crown and hinder healing.
Avoid using your teeth as tools: Don’t bite on hard objects or use your teeth to open packages.
Attend follow-up appointments: Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to check the fit and function of your crown if required. Your crown will be checked as part of your routine examination.
Long-Term Care:
Maintain good oral hygiene:
Brush twice a day, floss daily, and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Be mindful of your diet:
Continue to avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that could damage your crown.
Protect your crown:
If you grind your teeth, consider wearing a mouthguard at night.
Contact your dentist:
If you experience any problems or concerns, contact your dentist immediately on 07 3381 9992