A root canal treatment can be a life-changing procedure that saves a tooth and restores your smile. After the procedure, your dentist will likely place a crown so the treated tooth functions and feels like any other tooth and lasts for many years. How should you take care of your new crown? Proper maintenance will play a huge role in ensuring your crown stays in excellent shape and continues to perform well for years.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essential care tips for crowns after a root canal in Riverside. Whether you’re in the healing process or trying to avoid other issues, these tips will keep your smile strong and healthy.
1. Follow Post-Treatment Instructions Carefully
After your root canal, your dentist will provide special care instructions. These are important to make sure your recovery goes smoothly. You may feel slight discomfort a few days after the procedure, but this should fade quickly. Your dentist can also advise avoiding some foods or activities for a few days during the initial healing process to reduce stress on the crown. Take these recommendations seriously to avoid complications.
2. Maintain good oral hygiene
One of the best ways to look after your crown is to maintain excellent oral hygiene. Your crowns need regular cleaning, just like your natural teeth, to remove plaque that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day and floss daily to help your crown and the nearby gums stay healthy. Be very attentive to the gum line around your crown since it’s one of the most common areas where plaque can build up.
3. Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods
Although crowns can bear heavy pressure, they aren’t indestructible. Avoid hard or sticky foods, as they may unnecessarily wear down your crown or cause it to crack. Examples include ice, hard candies, and gum. Chewing hard foods can dislodge the crown or put undue stress on the tooth beneath it.
4. Look for Signs of Damage
After a root canal, keep a close eye on your crown and report any signs of possible damage to your dentist immediately. If you notice any discomfort, unusual sensitivity, or a change in the crown’s fit, contact your dentist as soon as possible. This will prevent complications such as an infection or more serious damage from setting in.
5. Regular Dental Checkups
Regular dental visits are crucial to the long-term health of your crown. The dentist will evaluate the state of your crown, look for any signs of wear or damage, and clean around the area. Routine checkups will also confirm that the tooth beneath your crown remains healthy and infection-free. Be sure to schedule these checkups as recommended by your dentist, typically every 6 to 12 months.
6. Be aware of grinding your teeth
If you grind your teeth at night, you may want to speak with your dentist about it. Grinding, also called bruxism, can seriously damage crowns over time. A mouthguard will protect your crown and your natural teeth from the damage caused by grinding. If you don’t know whether you grind your teeth, ask your dentist for advice at your next visit.
7. Know When to Seek Help
Even with the best care, problems with your crown can occur. If you have pain or sensitivity, or if you notice your crown feels loose or out of place, contact your dentist right away. These could be signs of an underlying problem that needs immediate attention, such as an infection, or that the crown needs adjustment or replacement.
Caring for your crown after a root canal will help preserve your tooth’s function and overall oral health. With these easy care tips, such as proper oral hygiene, avoidance of hard foods, and regular dental checkups, you will make sure that your crown lasts as long as possible and keeps your smile intact.
If you’ve had a root canal recently or if it is recommended for you, talk to your Riverside dentist about your personalized care and subsequent treatment plan. You are welcome to contact us if you have any questions or need guidance on how to best care for your crown.
FAQs
- How long does a crown last after a root canal?
A well-maintained crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on how well you care for it and the materials used. - Can I drink coffee with my crown?
Yes, you can drink coffee with your crown, but be mindful of staining. If you have a porcelain crown, it can discolor over time with regular consumption of dark beverages. - Is it normal for my crown to feel sensitive after a root canal?
Some mild sensitivity is normal immediately after the procedure. However, if sensitivity persists or worsens, it may indicate an issue with the crown or the underlying tooth. - Can a crown fall off?
It’s rare for a crown to fall off if it’s properly placed, but it can happen if the tooth underneath becomes weak or if the crown is damaged. If this happens, visit your dentist as soon as possible.
5. What are the signs that my crown needs to be replaced?
Signs include visible damage, discomfort when chewing, or a change in crown fit. If you notice any of these signs, consult your dentist right away.
