Recovery after getting a crown is typically quick and relatively easy. There are potential complications to watch out for, however. Follow all of your dentist's or oral surgeon's instructions after having a crown placed.

Basic Recovery After Getting a Crown

• You may have some pain. You won't feel anything during the procedure because your dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. You might have some soreness in your gums and sensitivity in the tooth that was crowned, especially if you have a root canal before the dentist crowns your tooth. Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, can help reduce swelling and pain. 
• Watch what you eat. Try not to eat or chew anything until the local anesthetic wears off to prevent biting down too hard on your crown or biting your tongue. It's best to avoid sticky foods that could pull at your crown for the first 24 hours, explains Madison Family Dental Associates. If your crown is a temporary one, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth and steer clear of sticky and very hard foods until you get your permanent crown.
• Pay attention to your symptoms. While some mild pain, irritation and sensitivity is normal, you may need to revisit your dentist to adjust your bite if you're having a lot of pain or can't chew on your crown without pain. Oswego Dentist recommends calling your dental office if you have sensitivity for more than a week or if it lasts longer than a minute when you experience the symptom. Call your dentist if you experience any signs of infection, such as a fever or severe redness and swelling.
• Take medications as prescribed. Your dentist may give you prescription pain medications, particularly if you've have a root canal. Your dentist may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent an infection in your heart if you have existing heart problems, according to WebMD.
• Use caution when flossing with a temporary crown. Pull the floss out from the side when you floss near your crown instead of pulling up. Pulling up on the floss could pull your temporary crown out since it's not as strong as a permanent crown.

What to Do if Your Crown Falls Off

If your crown comes loose and falls off, call your dentist to make an appointment to have it replaced. In the meantime:

• If you have the crown: Gently rinse away any food particles and brush the area softly so you don't irritate the exposed tooth. Seat the crown over your tooth and bring your teeth together to determine how the crown is supposed to sit. Put a small amount of denture adhesive or toothpaste on the crown and place it over your tooth, biting down lightly to secure it.
• If you do not have the crown: Avoid irritating the exposed tooth while you wait for your dentist appointment. Dabbing clove oil or Anbesol on the exposed tooth can help with pain, advises Boise Family Dental Care.

For more information, contact South Shore Prosthodontics or a similar location.