10 common questions asked about crowns after placing crowns/post op instructions.

Many questions linger in the mind of the patient after placing the crown. Let’s see some the frequently asked questions.

1. Why does my tooth look bulky after placing tooth?

The dentist shapes the tooth keeping in mind many factors like aesthetics, strengths of the tooth, matching it with the teeth on the other side, bite with the opposing teeth.procelain fused metal crowns are a bit bulkier than zirconium crowns. All the crowns need to have certain minimal thickness to ensure adequate strength. The patient may feel the new crown bulkier immediately after placement eventually the patient gets adjusted to the new crown in little over 2 weeks. If it doesn’t feel good after that also he may need to visit the dentist office again.

2. Why is my tooth sensitive after crown placement?

Cold sensitivity is normal with a newly placed crown, which settles on its own. If the tooth is sensitive when biting than visit the dentist to get the bite adjusted.

3. Why do the crowns fall off?

The crown may fall off if there is trauma, heavy tooth grinding or the decay of the underneath teeth. If none of these exists then the crown could have come out because the cement used to fix the crown might have leached out.

4. What should I do if my crown falls off?

Having a loose crown or having a crown fall out can be a unsettling feeling because the exposed tooth is sensitive to hot and cold foods and even air. When the crown pops off while eating, flossingor brushing teeth it can be reattached in the dentist’s office before the underlying tooth becomes damaged.

5. Does my crowns stain?

Yes, crowns can stain with time however their level of staining is usually less significant vs. natural teeth. Porcelain crowns may stain overtime when exposed to coffee, red wine or smoking. Zirconium crowns are resistant to stains.

6. How long does my crowns last?

Crowns could last a long time as long as it is maintained well with proper oral hygiene and regular checkups with dentists. The average life span of dental crown lasts between 5 to 15 yrs.some may last as long as 25 to 30 yrs.

7. Can I brush and get regular cleaning done around the crowns?

Yes, normal brushing and flossing has to be done around the crowns to prevent plaque formation. Professional cleaning can also be done at periodic intervals.

8. What type of food should I avoid with crowns?

Any food that has the potential to fracture a crown like nut shells hard candies and ice should be avoided. Sticky foods like chewing gums which pull off with crown should be avoided.

9. How do I maintain the crowns?

Certain instructions are given to be followed for the long life the crowns placed like:

• Maintaining proper oral hygiene like brushing twice daily and flossing.
• Regular checkups with the dentist and professional cleaning need to be done.
• Don’t chew on hard foods. Do not bite finger nails.
• Do not use your teeth to open bottles and packages.
• Do wear a custom fitted bite guard if you bite or clench your teeth often.

10. What happens if my crowns chip off?

It may be possible to repair a chipped crown depending on how much of it is damaged. If the chip isn’t large. Your dentist may repair it with resin or composite material of the same color as the tooth. In some cases the crown needs to be reshaped and smoothed. If the chip or crack is severe enough than a new crown may be advised.