what to eat after a crown

3 min read 26-12-2024

Getting a dental crown is a significant dental procedure. It's crucial to follow your dentist's instructions carefully for a successful recovery. A key part of that recovery is knowing what to eat after getting a crown. This guide will help you navigate the post-crown diet, ensuring both your comfort and the longevity of your new crown.

Understanding the Post-Crown Diet: The First 24 Hours

Immediately following the procedure, your mouth will likely be numb. This numbness will gradually wear off. Until then, avoid eating or drinking anything hot. You should also avoid chewing until the numbness subsides.

What to Eat (and Drink) in the First 24 Hours:

Soft Foods: Think yogurt, applesauce, mashed potatoes, or very well-cooked oatmeal. These are gentle on the newly placed crown and your sensitive gums.
Smoothies: Blend fruits and vegetables into a cool, refreshing smoothie. Choose soft fruits like bananas or berries to avoid putting pressure on the crown.
Broth: Warm broth is soothing and helps keep you hydrated. Avoid anything too hot.
Pudding: A simple pudding offers a soft, creamy consistency that’s easy to consume.

The Following Days and Weeks: Gradually Expanding Your Diet

Once the numbness subsides and you're feeling comfortable, you can gradually introduce more foods into your diet. However, it’s important to continue avoiding anything too hard, sticky, or chewy.

Safe Foods to Eat After the First 24 Hours:

Soft Cooked Vegetables: Steamed carrots, well-cooked broccoli, or squash offer nutrients without the harsh texture.
Scrambled Eggs: Eggs are a good source of protein, and scrambled eggs are easy on your teeth.
Fish: Flaky fish like cod or salmon are soft and nutritious.
Pasta: Choose soft pasta and softer sauces. Avoid overly crunchy or hard noodles.
Well-Cooked Chicken: Chicken breast, when well-cooked and shredded, can be a good option.

Foods to Avoid After Getting a Dental Crown:

It’s critical to avoid certain foods to protect your new crown and prevent any complications. These include:

Hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, ice, popcorn, and raw vegetables like carrots should be avoided. These can damage or dislodge the crown.
Sticky foods: Taffy, caramel, gum, and certain types of dried fruit can stick to the crown and pull it loose.
Chewy foods: Tough meats, bagels, and anything requiring excessive chewing can put stress on the crown.
Extremely hot or cold foods: Temperature extremes can cause sensitivity and discomfort.

Addressing Potential Discomfort and Complications

Even with careful eating habits, you may experience some temporary discomfort. Here’s what to watch out for:

Sensitivity: Some sensitivity to hot or cold is normal in the first few days. However, persistent or increasing sensitivity should be reported to your dentist.
Pain: Any significant pain or discomfort warrants a call to your dentist’s office. It may indicate a problem with the crown.
Loose Crown: If you feel your crown is loose, contact your dentist immediately.

Long-Term Dietary Considerations

After the initial healing period, you can generally return to your normal diet. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of your teeth and gums. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups is crucial for long-term dental health.

Conclusion: Nutrition and Your New Crown

Choosing the right foods after getting a dental crown is important for your comfort and the longevity of your new restoration. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth recovery and enjoy the benefits of your new crown for years to come. Remember to consult with your dentist if you have any concerns or experience any unexpected issues. They can provide personalized advice and guidance based on your specific situation.