If you’ve recently gotten a same-day crown or are considering one, you may be wondering what happens after the procedure—especially when it comes to eating. Food is a big part of our daily routines, and knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable about your dental treatment. With advancements in technology, same-day crowns offer convenience and efficiency, but they also come with specific guidelines to ensure the best results.
Understanding how to care for your crown and what to eat (or avoid) immediately afterward can make all the difference. Here’s everything you need to know about resuming your regular eating habits after receiving a same-day crown.
Eating Right After a Same-Day Crown
The term "same-day crown" refers to dental crowns created and placed in a single visit, made possible by cutting-edge technology. Once the procedure is complete, your crown is strong and fully functional. However, your mouth may still need a little time to adjust.
Immediately after the procedure, it's common for patients to experience some residual numbness from the local anesthetic. This makes it crucial to avoid eating right away—you don’t want to accidentally bite your cheek or tongue. Once the numbness wears off, you can eat, but here’s the key advice: stick to soft foods initially. This gives your mouth a chance to adjust comfortably without placing unnecessary pressure on your new crown.
To protect your dental work, avoid anything especially hard, sticky, or chewy for the first 24 hours. Foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and applesauce are great options during this short period.
Sensitivity and Adjustments
While same-day crowns are both durable and designed to replicate the natural structure of your tooth, slight sensitivity in the days following the procedure is perfectly normal. This typically occurs as your gums and surrounding teeth adapt to the new crown.
During this adjustment period, you might notice increased sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks. To manage this, try consuming items at a moderate temperature and steering clear of extreme temperatures for the first few days. Over-the-counter dental products for sensitivity, such as specially formulated toothpaste, can also help if needed.
If you feel that your bite is slightly off or experience persistent discomfort, it’s important to contact your dentist. Same-day crowns are molded with precision, but minor adjustments can ensure the crown settles perfectly and functions seamlessly.
What to Expect Long-Term
After the initial adjustment period, a same-day crown functions just like your natural tooth. You’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite foods without additional restrictions. That said, practicing good oral hygiene and maintaining regular dental checkups are vital to keeping your crown—and your natural teeth—healthy for years to come.
While same-day crowns are made from high-quality materials, no dental restoration is invincible. Refrain from using your teeth as tools (such as to open packaging) and avoid excessively hard foods like ice or hard candy, which can cause both natural teeth and crowned teeth to crack or chip.
The good news is that, with proper care, same-day crowns are designed to last for many years. Pay attention to cleaning around the crown just as you would your other teeth, focusing especially on the gum line where plaque might build up. Flossing daily, brushing twice a day, and visiting your dentist routinely will help ensure your smile stays strong and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Same-Day Crowns
Can I return to work or daily activities after receiving a same-day crown?
Yes! Most patients return to their normal activities the same day they receive their crown. There’s no downtime required beyond waiting for the numbing effects to fully subside. The convenience of same-day crowns is one of their key benefits, allowing patients to simplify their schedules without compromising their dental health.
Are there any foods I should completely avoid after getting a same-day crown?
While you can resume eating most foods shortly after the procedure, avoid extremely hard or sticky foods immediately after getting your crown. This includes items like ice, toffee, or crunchy nuts. Over time, you can enjoy a wide variety of foods, but it’s always good to exercise caution with anything overly hard to protect your crown and natural teeth.
At Oak Road Dentistry, we’re here to make your dental experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. If you have any questions about same-day crowns or personalized dental care, contact us online or call us at 770-985-9559.