If your child just got a dental crown or is scheduled to get one soon, you might be wondering what to expect next. Dental crowns are a common solution for protecting and restoring damaged or decayed teeth. While the procedure itself is simple and safe, it’s normal for kids to need a little time to adjust afterward.
Here’s a quick guide to help you support your child during the healing process and make sure their new crown stays strong and comfortable.
What to Expect Right After the Procedure
It’s totally normal for your child to feel some numbness in their mouth for a few hours after getting a crown. This is due to the local anesthetic used during the procedure. During this time, try to keep them from chewing on their cheek, tongue, or lips, as they might accidentally cause irritation without realizing it.
Once the numbness wears off, they may notice some tenderness or sensitivity around the treated tooth. This is usually mild and goes away within a few days.
Managing Post-Procedure Discomfort
If your child is feeling sore, ibuprofen or acetaminophen (as recommended by your dentist or pediatrician) can help ease discomfort. Soft foods like applesauce, mashed potatoes, and yogurt are great options while the area heals.
Keep an eye out for any signs of swelling, severe pain, or a crown that feels too high when your child bites down—these could be signs that the crown needs an adjustment.
Tips for Taking Care of the Crown
Once your child is feeling back to normal, they can return to their usual activities and diet. However, there are a few things you can do to help their crown last:
- Help them avoid sticky or very hard foods (like gum, taffy, or ice) that could loosen or crack the crown.
- Encourage regular brushing and flossing to keep the surrounding teeth and gums healthy.
- Schedule regular checkups for them to make sure the crown stays in great shape.
When to Call Your Dentist
If your child continues to feel discomfort after a few days, or if their crown feels loose or painful, give their dentist a call. Most issues are easy to fix, and quick attention can prevent bigger problems later on. With a little care and attention, your child’s recovery after a dental crown should be smooth and easy.
About Castle Rock Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
There are a lot of reasons to smile at Castle Rock! Our team specializes in dentistry for infants, children, and teens in Castle Rock, CO. Doctors Layne Benzley, DDS, and Alex Sherman, DDS, are experts at bringing a smile to every patient. We know every smile is unique, which is why our team strives to provide expert, individualized care for every patient. To schedule your child’s visit, feel free to call us at (720) 770-5058 or book online.