Dental crowns cover damaged or decayed teeth, restore their function, and improve their appearance. While they offer numerous benefits, a common side effect after getting a dental crown is tooth sensitivity. Continue reading to learn how to manage this sensitivity after getting a dental crown.
Understanding Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a condition where the teeth respond with pain to certain stimuli, such as hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages. After receiving a dental crown, sensitivity can occur due to several reasons, including:
- The irritation of the tooth's nerves during the crown preparation and placement process.
- Temporary inflammation of the gums around the crown.
- The natural settling and adjustment period of the new crown.
- Issues with the fit or placement of the crown itself.
Tooth sensitivity after getting a dental crown lasts for a few days to a few weeks as the tooth and surrounding tissues adjust to it. However, in some cases, it may persist longer and require professional attention.
Immediate Relief for Tooth Sensitivity
If you're experiencing tooth sensitivity after getting a dental crown, there are several immediate relief options you can try:
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult your dentist if you have any concerns.
- Desensitizing Toothpaste: Toothpastes specifically designed for sensitive teeth contain compounds that help block the transmission of pain signals from the tooth surface to the nerve. Look for products containing potassium nitrate or strontium chloride.
- Home Remedies and Natural Solutions: Rinsing with warm salt water can reduce inflammation and soothe irritated gums. Applying a cold compress to the outside of your cheek can also help numb the area and reduce swelling.
Dietary Adjustments
Making some temporary dietary changes can help manage tooth sensitivity:
- Foods and Drinks to Avoid: Steer clear of hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods such as ice cream, soda, coffee, and citrus fruits.
- Recommended Foods: Eat foods that are gentle on your teeth, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and lukewarm soups.
- Tips for Meal Planning: Plan meals that avoid extremes in temperature and are easy to chew. Incorporating more room-temperature foods can help minimize discomfort.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining proper oral hygiene after getting a dental crown is crucial, but it requires some adjustments at the beginning:
- Proper Brushing Techniques: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes to avoid irritating your gums and teeth. Hard brushing can worsen sensitivity and damage your gums.
- Choosing the Right Products: Select a toothpaste formulated for sensitive teeth and a toothbrush designed for gentle cleaning.
- Flossing Tips: Floss carefully to remove plaque without causing further irritation. Gently slide the floss between your teeth and avoid snapping it into the gums.
Professional Treatments
While home remedies and adjustments can help, it's essential to know when to seek professional care:
- Contact Your Dentist: If sensitivity persists beyond a few weeks, becomes severe, or is accompanied by other symptoms like swelling or pus, contact your dentist to get an appointment as soon as possible.
- In-Office Treatments: Your dentist may suggest treatments such as fluoride varnishes, bonding agents, or gum treatments to alleviate sensitivity after getting a dental crown.
- Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments allow your dentist to monitor the crown and ensure it fits correctly and functions well.
Preventive Measures
Taking steps to prevent future tooth sensitivity enhances your long-term oral health:
- Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain your oral health and identify potential issues early.
- Avoiding Triggers: Continue to avoid foods and habits that can damage your teeth and crowns, such as biting on hard objects and consuming acidic drinks.
- Long-Term Care: Practice good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily, flossing, and using mouthwash. This helps keep your teeth and gums healthy and reduces the risk of tooth sensitivity.
Managing tooth sensitivity after getting a dental crown involves making dietary adjustments and maintaining proper oral hygiene. If sensitivity persists, schedule an appointment to ensure your crown fits well and functions properly.
If you suspect you need a dental crown or have other dental-related questions or concerns, contact Taylorview Dental today.
