Post-Operative Instructions Following Permanent Dental Crown

Dear Patient,

You have received your permanent dental crown today. To ensure the longevity and success of your new restoration, please review and follow the instructions below.

🦷 What to Expect

  • Some sensitivity to temperature, pressure, or biting is normal for a few days after cementation.
  • Your bite may feel “off” at first. If this persists beyond 2–3 weeks or causes discomfort, please contact us for a quick adjustment.

🪥 Oral Care

  • Brush and floss around the crown just like a natural tooth.
  • Be gentle the first day, especially around the gum line if the area is tender.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay around the margins of the crown.

🍽️ Eating & Chewing

  • Avoid eating until numbness has completely worn off (if local anesthetic was used).
  • Avoid sticky or hard foods for the first 24 hours to allow the cement to fully set.
  • After 24 hours, you may resume a normal diet, but continue to avoid chewing excessively hard items (ice, hard candy, popcorn kernels).

đź’Š Sensitivity or Discomfort

  • Temporary discomfort or mild sensitivity is normal and should improve within a few days.
  • You may take over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen or acetaminophen) as needed.
  • If discomfort persists longer than one week, call us to evaluate the bite or the crown.

⚠️ When to Contact Us

Please call if you experience:

  • Prolonged sensitivity or pain (lasting more than 5–7 weeks)
  • A feeling that your bite is uneven
  • The crown becomes loose or comes off
  • Swelling, redness, or signs of infection near the crown

đź§Ľ Long-Term Care

  • Crowns are strong but not indestructible—avoid habits like nail biting, chewing ice, or using your teeth to open packages.
  • Regular cleanings and exams are essential to ensure your crown and surrounding teeth stay healthy.