What you do in the first days after a dental crown can make a big difference in comfort and longevity. Most people feel relieved once the new crown is in place, but there are simple steps you should follow right away to protect your investment and speed healing. Below you’ll find clear, practical guidance for pain control, eating, cleaning, follow-up care, and when to contact your dentist.

What to Do After Getting a Dental Crown is written for patients at every stage, from same-day crowns to traditional two-visit restorations. If you recently had a crown placed by our team at Scottsdales Dentist, or you’re planning one soon, these tips will help you recover comfortably and keep your new crown lasting for years.

Immediate care: first 24 to 48 hours

Expect mild sensitivity and soreness

A little soreness around the gum and light sensitivity to hot or cold is normal for 24 to 48 hours after crown placement. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (if you can take it) usually control discomfort. If your dentist provided a prescription, follow the instructions exactly.

How to eat and drink

  • Stick to soft foods for the first 24 hours, especially if local anesthetic was used. Think yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and smoothies.
  • Avoid extremely sticky or hard foods, gum, and crunchy candies. These can dislodge a new crown or damage the cement bond.
  • Try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth for at least 48 hours.

Oral hygiene tips right away

Keep brushing and flossing, but be gentle near the new crown for the first day. Use a soft-bristled brush and floss carefully, sliding the floss out rather than popping it upward, which can sometimes loosen a temporary crown. For added comfort, warm salt water rinses (half a teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water) soothe gums and promote healing.

When you have a temporary crown

If you have a temporary crown, protect it until your final restoration is cemented. Temporaries are not as strong as permanent crowns, and the cement holding them is weaker on purpose so the dentist can remove them later.

  • Avoid biting nails, ice, or sticky foods.
  • If the temporary comes off, save it and call us right away so we can recement it or schedule a quick fix. For same-day troubleshooting, check our emergency dental care page to learn about same-day support.

Long-term care for your crown

A crown can last many years if you maintain good oral habits. Here’s how to make your crown last:

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day around the crown. Consider a floss threader if crowns are close to bridges.
  • Use a night guard if you grind or clench teeth. Night guards protect crowns from excessive wear. See more about protecting restorations with our dental services pages on night guards.
  • Keep regular dental checkups and cleanings, so your dentist can monitor the crown and surrounding gum health. Learn about preventive visits at our dental cleanings and exams page.

Minimalist infographic, isometric 3D style, showing timeline post-crown: Day 1 (soft foods), Days 2-7 (gentle hygiene), 2 ...

Signs you should call your dentist immediately

Contact us if you notice any of these issues after getting a crown:

  • Severe or worsening pain that does not respond to medication
  • Crown feels loose, wobbly, or comes off
  • A persistent bad taste or drainage near the tooth, which could indicate infection
  • A change in your bite that does not resolve after a day or two

If any of the above happens after hours, use our emergency dental care resources to get same-day help. Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online for urgent care.

Adjusting to the new bite

Your bite might feel different after a crown for a week or two. If it feels noticeably high or you have persistent jaw soreness, return for a bite adjustment. Small adjustments are normal and quick to fix in the office. Dr. Jennifer Bundy and our Scottsdale team make sure your crown fits comfortably and functions properly.

Special considerations for implants and bridges

If your crown is part of a dental implant or bridge, follow your dentist’s specific instructions about healing times and restrictions. Implants require a longer integration period, and your dentist will give a tailored care plan. Learn more about implant care on our dental implants page.

Tips for keeping crowns looking great

  • Avoid staining habits like heavy coffee, red wine, or tobacco.
  • Consider professional whitening before cosmetic crowns are matched, because crowns do not whiten the same way natural teeth do. Our cosmetic dentist Scottsdale AZ team can help plan color matching for a natural result.
  • Schedule routine cleanings and gum disease checks, since healthy gums protect your crown’s margin. See our periodontal treatment services for more information.

Photorealistic, friendly female dentist discussing a dental chart with a mature American couple in a bright consultation r...

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I wait to eat after a crown?

Wait until numbness from local anesthetic wears off, usually 1 to 3 hours, then start with soft foods. Avoid hard and sticky foods for at least 24 to 48 hours.

Is sensitivity normal after a crown?

Yes, mild sensitivity to hot, cold, or pressure is common for a few days to a few weeks. If sensitivity is severe or persists beyond three weeks, call us.

What if my crown falls out?

Save the crown if you can and call our office right away. A loose or lost crown can often be recemented the same day. For emergencies, see our emergency dental care page or call (480) 948-1720.

Can I whiten my teeth after getting a crown?

Crowns do not respond to whitening the same way natural teeth do. If you’re considering whitening, do it before final crown color selection or discuss options with our cosmetic dentistry team.

How long do crowns last?

With good care, crowns often last 10 to 15 years or more. Factors such as oral hygiene, grinding, and diet affect longevity.

Will the crown look natural?

Yes, modern crowns are color-matched to your teeth. Our cosmetic dentist Scottsdale AZ specialists focus on lifelike restorations that blend with your smile.

Summary

Caring for a new crown is straightforward: control pain, eat carefully, maintain gentle oral hygiene, and watch for warning signs. Regular dental visits and protective habits will extend your crown’s life. If you need help, the team at Scottsdales Dentist is ready to support you.

Next steps and scheduling

If you have questions about a recent crown or want a follow-up appointment, we’re here for you. Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online to schedule a checkup with Dr. Jennifer Bundy, recognized as a Top Arizona General Dentist 2025. For urgent issues, review our emergency dental care options.

About Scottsdales Dentist

Scottsdales Dentist is a trusted, top-rated dental practice located in the heart of Scottsdale, Arizona (85250). Led by Dr. Jennifer Bundy, DDS — recognized as a Top Arizona General Dentist for 2025 — our office provides complete family and cosmetic dental care with a focus on comfort, technology, and long-term oral health.

We combine personalized, gentle care with the latest advancements in cosmetic dentistry, preventive cleanings, and dental implants to help patients achieve healthy, confident smiles. Whether you need same-day emergency dental care or advanced smile restoration, our experienced team delivers exceptional results in a calm, friendly setting.

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Ready to Schedule an Appointment?

We’re accepting new patients! Call (480) 948-1720 or contact us online to schedule your next visit at Scottsdales Dentist.

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