Can You Eat Normally After Getting a Crown? Tips for Recovery

Getting a dental crown is a common procedure that can restore a damaged or decayed tooth. After the procedure, many patients wonder if they can return to their normal eating habits right away. While the answer depends on several factors, there are some general guidelines that can help ensure a smooth recovery while protecting your new crown. In this article, we’ll cover what to expect after getting a crown, when it’s safe to eat normally, and tips for a successful recovery.

1. What Happens During a Dental Crown Procedure?

Before discussing how to eat after getting a crown, it’s important to understand what happens during the procedure. A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength. It’s often recommended for teeth that are severely damaged or decayed and can help prevent further damage or decay.1.1 The Process of Getting a CrownThe procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. Then, a mold of the tooth is taken to create a custom-fitted crown. A temporary crown is placed on the tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made in a lab.During the second visit, the permanent crown is placed and cemented onto the tooth. The procedure is relatively simple and is usually performed under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake and alert but won’t feel any pain.

2. How Long Should You Wait Before Eating After Getting a Crown?

After your dental crown procedure, you might wonder when you can return to eating normally. The answer depends on several factors, including whether you’ve received a temporary or permanent crown, as well as how the procedure went. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:2.1 Eating with a Temporary CrownIf you received a temporary crown, it’s important to be cautious about what you eat. Temporary crowns are not as durable as permanent ones, so they can be more prone to damage or dislodging. You should avoid eating sticky, chewy, or hard foods that could pull the temporary crown off or damage it. Additionally, refrain from biting down on the side of your mouth with the temporary crown to avoid putting excessive pressure on it.You’ll typically need to avoid eating on the side of your mouth with the temporary crown for at least a few days after the procedure. Soft foods, like yogurt, mashed potatoes, or soup, are a safer choice during this period. Stick to a soft diet until your permanent crown is placed.2.2 Eating with a Permanent CrownOnce your permanent crown is in place, you can usually return to your normal eating habits, but it’s still important to take care. While permanent crowns are more durable, it’s best to avoid eating hard or sticky foods right away, as your gums and the crown may still be sensitive during the first few days of recovery.In general, you can eat most foods once your permanent crown is secured, but avoid excessive pressure on the newly crowned tooth for the first few days. It's best to chew on the opposite side of your mouth to give the crowned tooth time to settle.

3. Tips for Eating After Getting a Crown

To ensure a smooth recovery and to protect your dental crown, here are some helpful tips for eating after getting a crown:3.1 Start with Soft FoodsAfter the procedure, stick to soft foods that don’t require much chewing. This will give your tooth time to adjust to the new crown while minimizing discomfort or pressure on the tooth. Some good options include:Soft fruits like bananas or applesauceSmoothies (just avoid using straws to prevent additional pressure)Mashed potatoes or soft pastaSoups and broths (avoid hot temperatures that could irritate your tooth)3.2 Avoid Hard or Sticky FoodsFor the first few days after getting your crown, it’s essential to avoid foods that could potentially damage the crown or cause discomfort. These include:Hard foods, like nuts, raw vegetables, or hard candySticky foods, like caramel, taffy, or chewing gum, which can dislodge the crownWhile permanent crowns are stronger than temporary ones, it’s best to avoid these foods until your mouth feels comfortable and your crown feels securely in place.3.3 Chew on the Opposite SideTo prevent unnecessary pressure on your newly crowned tooth, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth. This will help distribute the pressure evenly and prevent damaging the crown during the recovery period.3.4 Maintain Good Oral HygieneEven with a dental crown, it’s essential to maintain a good oral hygiene routine to prevent plaque buildup and gum irritation around the crown. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss regularly to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Be gentle around the crown to avoid damaging it.

4. When Should You Contact Your Dentist?

While most people experience minimal discomfort after getting a crown, it’s important to be aware of any unusual symptoms that may require attention. Here are some signs that you should contact your dentist after getting a crown:Pain or discomfort: Mild discomfort after the procedure is normal, but persistent pain could indicate that the crown is too high or that there’s an issue with the fit.Sensitivity: Some sensitivity to hot or cold is common, but if it lasts for more than a few weeks or is severe, contact your dentist.Crown feels loose: If the crown feels loose or comes off entirely, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible.

5. Real-Life Example: How Recovery Went Smoothly for Sarah

Sarah, a 34-year-old woman from California, recently had a dental crown placed on her back molar after a large cavity was discovered. After the procedure, Sarah was advised to avoid chewing on the side of her mouth with the crown and to eat soft foods for the next few days."I followed my dentist's advice and stuck to soft foods like soup, mashed potatoes, and smoothies," Sarah recalls. "It was a little uncomfortable at first, but within a few days, I was able to eat normally without any issues. I also made sure to brush and floss gently around the crown to keep everything clean."Sarah’s recovery went smoothly, and she was able to return to her regular eating habits within a week. "It’s been great knowing that my tooth is protected and that I don’t have to worry about it getting worse," she says.

6. Conclusion: Eating After Getting a Crown

While getting a dental crown is a common and effective way to restore a damaged tooth, it’s important to follow your dentist’s advice on eating and caring for your crown to ensure a smooth recovery. Starting with soft foods, avoiding hard and sticky items, and maintaining good oral hygiene will help your crown stay in place and allow your tooth to heal properly.If you have any concerns or need additional guidance on caring for your new dental crown, visit Family Dentistry Online for expert advice and recommendations on dental care and recovery.