Dental Crown Pre-Operative Instructions

What You Should Do Before Your First Dental Crown Appointment

A Dental Crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It’s typically made from materials like porcelain or metal and is designed to look and feel like your natural teeth. To get the most out of your procedure, be sure to follow the guidelines below.

Eating and Drinking

• Eat Normally: On the day of your dental crown procedure, eat your regular meals unless you’re taking sedation medication (see Sedative Drugs below). A balanced breakfast and lunch will help keep your energy up during the procedure.
• Avoid Chewing on the Affected Tooth: This minimizes the risk of further damage or discomfort before the procedure.

Medications

• Take Prescribed Medications: Continue taking any prescribed medications as directed by your doctor or dentist unless otherwise advised.
• Inform Your Dentist About Health Changes: If your medications or health status have changed recently, make sure to update your dentist.

Pain Management

• Be Prepared for Mild Sensitivity: It’s common to experience temporary sensitivity to hot and cold after the procedure. This typically subsides within a day or two.
• Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: Consider using a toothpaste like Sensodyne Rapid Relief to ease sensitivity.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be helpful. You may ask your dentist about the correct dosage, but for general guidance, 1000mg of acetaminophen combined with 600mg of ibuprofen every 4-6 hours can be an effective combination (if you have no contraindications).

Sedation Options

• Plan Ahead for Sedation: If your procedure requires dental sedation (oral conscious sedation), be sure to review the specific pre-visit sedation instructions provided by your dentist.

Entertainment During Your Visit

• Bring Headphones: To make your visit more comfortable, bring your headphones and listen to your favorite music or podcast during the procedure.

Oral Hygiene Before Your Dental Crown Procedure

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for a successful crown procedure and long-term dental health. Here are a few tips:

• Brush Twice a Day The ideal brushing routine involves brushing after meals to keep your teeth as clean as possible before your appointment.
• Rinse When You Can’t Brush: If you’re unable to brush your teeth after meals, rinsing with water or a fluoride mouthwash like Crest Pro-Health Densify can help remove food particles and reduce the risk of decay around your new crown.
• Consider an Electric Toothbrush: Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth without irritating your gums. The Curaprox CS5460 Ultra Soft Toothbrush is a great option. You might also consider an electric toothbrush like the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100 for better plaque removal.
• Floss Daily: Flossing is critical for removing food particles around your dental crown. Try GUM ButlerWeave Dental Floss, or opt for flossers or interdental brushes like the GUM Proxabrush if you find regular floss challenging to use.
• Use a Water Flosser: A Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser can help clean areas that regular flossing might miss. Ideally, water flossing should be done daily in addition to regular flossing.
• Use High-Fluoride Toothpaste: Switch to a high-fluoride toothpaste like Colgate PreviDent 5000, which can help protect against cavities and keep your gums healthy.

What to Wear to Your Dental Crown Appointment

• Opt for Comfortable Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes, ideally with an open collar.
• Avoid Light-Colored Clothing: Darker clothes can help hide any potential stains from materials used during the procedure.
• Minimal Makeup and Jewelry: Try to wear minimal makeup and avoid heavy jewelry. If you wear contact lenses, consider switching to glasses for the day.

Review Post-Operative Instructions

It’s important to review the post-operative care instructions for your dental crown ahead of time. Being familiar with what to expect will help ensure a smooth recovery.

Have Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns about your dental crown procedure, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office. We’re here to make sure you feel comfortable and well-prepared for your appointment.