It's not unusual to go through a recovery period after certain dental procedures. The duration and level of aftercare needed will depend on the treatment and your Chevy Chase dentist will give you a list of recommendations to help you get better faster.
The same stays true when it comes to dental crowns in Chevy Chase. You can expect to experience some inflammation and irritation after the procedure. You may also experience a bit of pain and discomfort, but these symptoms should reduce in intensity in a few days.
With that in mind, here's what to expect from the dental crown recovery process.
Dental crowns can help you restore a tooth that has been severely damaged by decay. If you are nervous about the procedure, then knowing what to expect can help ease your fear.
The dentist will use an anesthetic so that you don't experience any pain during the procedure. The anesthesia will start wearing off in about one hour and will completely lose its effect a few hours later.
Expect to feel numb in the area for a few hours after your appointment. Avoid eating, biting, or chewing for a few hours to avoid hurting yourself.
If you notice bruising or inflammation in the area, know that this is also temporary.
It's normal to feel some degree of pain and discomfort after the anesthesia wears off. The pain should start diminishing in a few days or so. However, if the pain doesn't seem to subside or if it gets worse, then it's paramount to get in touch with your dentist as soon as possible.
If the pain causes too much discomfort, then you can manage it with some over-the-counter painkillers. Your dentist may even prescribe you some form of pain medication after the procedure.
The gums around the dental crown may feel sore and irritated for a few days. This is also normal and the discomfort will go away in a couple of days. You can use an anesthetic gel to lower your discomfort.
It's normal to feel a bit weird with a new dental crown and you will need a period of adjustment. If within a few days you notice the bite still doesn't feel natural, talk to your dentist to see if you need any readjustments.
If you want to extend the lifespan of your dental crowns for as long as possible, then you must take good care of them. Brush and floss your teeth daily, schedule regular dentist appointments, and avoid using your teeth as tools.
If you require restorative dentistry, then the fantastic team at Morrison Cosmetic Dentistry can help. We focus on meeting our patient's needs and educating them about their oral health.
Contact us now to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric Morrison DDS, MAGD.