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Steel crowns are a staple for pediatric dentistry. These crowns work just like adult dental crowns and restore structure and shape to damaged milk teeth. They are strong and durable and allow children to eat comfortably and articulate their words clearly despite having damaged teeth.
But how soon can your little one eat after getting stainless steel crowns and what should they eat? Keep reading to find out.
We advise waiting at least two to three hours after the procedure before feeding your child anything. This is enough time for the anesthetic to wear off and for your child to regain sensation in their mouth. Otherwise, if you feed your little one before the anesthetic wears off they could end up biting themselves. With that in mind, instruct your child to chew and bite with the side opposite to the dental crown for the first forty-eight hours after surgery.
Please note that it’s normal for them to feel mild discomfort after the surgery, which you can help relieve by giving them store-bought painkillers.
Applying high bite pressure on the stainless-steel crown soon after the surgery could lead to crown failures. As such, you should restrict your child’s diet to soft foods and liquids that won’t put excessive stress on the newly placed crowns.
Some excellent foods you could feed your child after surgery include scrambled eggs, pudding, jelly, mashed banana, and applesauce. Fresh fruit juice will suffice for drinks
Ah, the joys of dental crowns! Nothing screams "adulting" quite like getting a shiny stainless steel crown placed on your tooth. Whether it's for a tooth that has valiantly fought the good fight against decay or simply a crown procedure for aesthetic reasons, caring for your new dental accessory is of utmost importance. So, grab your toothbrush and let’s dive into the delightful world of crown care!
First things first, let’s talk about what you can shove into your mouth after your crown placement. In the first 24 hours, your crowned tooth may feel a bit numb, thanks to local anesthesia. You might want to start with soft foods that are easier to chew. Think mashed potatoes, yogurt, and perhaps some applesauce. Yes, my friend, it’s time to embrace your inner toddler! These soft delights will give your mouth a chance to recover without risking damage to your new crown. And hey, who doesn’t love the excuse to indulge in gooey mac and cheese? Just make sure it’s not too hot; we don’t want to pull a 'burnt tongue' stunt so soon after your crown procedure!
Now, here’s the million-dollar question: what about those sticky foods that taunt your taste buds? Can you indulge in that caramel candy or the deliciously chewy gummy bears? The answer is a resounding no! Sticky foods can damage the crown and even pull it off your tooth, and nobody wants to be that person who loses their crown after just one sweet treat. So, while your taste buds may be throwing a tantrum, stick to your soft foods for the time being. Your crowned tooth will thank you later!
As a general rule, you should avoid crunchy foods and anything that requires serious chewing for at least a week after getting your dental crown. This allows your gum to heal around the crown and ensures that cement holds it securely in place. Think of it as a royal decree from your dentist that you must respect. If you’re ever in doubt about what to eat after getting a crown, just remember: soft is the new hard. So, let’s put on our stretchy pants and enjoy the wonders of soft food cuisine!
Now that you’ve got the eating part down, let’s talk about maintenance. Caring for your dental crown is not all that different from caring for your natural teeth. You can (and should!) brush and floss around your crown just as you would with your other pearly whites. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid aggravating your gums, and make sure to floss gently to keep the area clean. Remember, the goal here is to maintain excellent oral hygiene without playing tug-of-war with your crown!
Maintaining oral hygiene after crown placement is essential for keeping decay at bay. Keep your dental routine consistent, brushing at least twice a day and flossing. You might even want to add an antibacterial mouthwash to your regimen. Just imagine your mouth as a sparkling clean castle, where the stainless steel crown reigns supreme! Make sure to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to keep everything in tip-top shape. After all, a happy crown is a healthy crown!
When it comes to specific products for caring for your stainless steel crown, don’t worry too much; there’s no need for a crown-specific toothpaste. Just stick with a fluoride toothpaste and a gentle toothbrush. However, if you’re feeling fancy, consider using a water flosser! It’s like a mini power washer for your mouth, blasting away food particles and bacteria like a pro. Who knew dental care could feel so exhilarating?
Parents, let’s not sugarcoat this: your child may feel a bit weird after getting their pediatric stainless steel crown. They might experience some sensitivity, but that’s perfectly normal. Their little mouths are getting used to the new bling! However, if your child is feeling particularly cranky, a dose of over-the-counter pain relief might just do the trick. After all, we all know that a happy child leads to a happy parent!
Common concerns after pediatric crown surgery include discomfort, sensitivity, and maybe even a little bit of whining (we’re looking at you, parents!). Kids may also notice a metallic taste or feel a bit of pressure around the crowned tooth. But fear not! These sensations are usually temporary. If they persist, a quick call to the dentist can help ease your worries. Better safe than sorry when it comes to your child’s oral health!
To help your child adjust to their new crown, remind them that it’s just a shiny new accessory, much like a superhero cape. Encourage them to keep their mouth clean with gentle brushing and flossing. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a little extra attention for their new crown? You could even throw a mini celebration with soft foods! After all, if you can’t celebrate a crown, what can you celebrate?
Uh-oh! If your crown feels loose, it’s time to channel your inner detective. First, try not to panic. Sometimes a little shift can happen as the cement settles. However, if you find yourself able to wiggle the crown like it’s a party trick, it’s time to contact your dentist. You wouldn't want your crown to go rogue and take a vacation from your tooth, would you?
If you experience pain or sensitivity after crown placement, don’t ignore it! First, try a warm saltwater rinse to soothe your gums. If that doesn’t do the trick, consider over-the-counter pain relief. Just remember, if the pain persists beyond a few days, it’s time to give your dentist a call. No one likes a drama queen, especially when it comes to dental discomfort!
When it comes to contacting the dentist after getting a crown, trust your instincts. If you feel something is off, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s discomfort, a loose crown, or just a nagging feeling, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Your dentist is there to help, and they’d rather see you for a quick check-up than have you worry endlessly about your new crown!
Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty of detecting decay around your crown. The best way to check for cavity formation is by looking for signs of discoloration or swelling around the gum line. If you notice any oddities, it’s time to schedule a visit with your dentist. Think of it as a crown check-up to ensure everything is still shiny and fabulous!
Symptoms that might indicate decay near your dental crown include pain, sensitivity, and maybe even a funny taste in your mouth. If you find yourself saying, “What’s that weird taste?” more than once, it’s probably time to consult your dentist, who is the ultimate guardian of your oral health!
As a general rule, you should have your dentist examine your crown every six months during your regular check-ups. This way, your dentist can catch any signs of decay before they become a big problem. Think of it as a royal inspection, ensuring that your crown continues to reign supreme in the kingdom of your mouth!
But you’ll want to avoid the acidic stuff and stick to mango, papaya, and carrot juice. At the same time, avoid giving your child any fizzy or sugary drinks that may damage the tooth holding the dental crowns.
You should also avoid feeding your child any hard foods like nuts or raw carrots soon after the procedure. The excessive bite pressure will easily dislodge the crown. Feeding them sticky foods like caramel and toffee will also do the same.
Healing for children after getting pediatric dental crowns takes about three days. The mild pain and discomfort go away by the second day, and your child can resume their usual diet by the third.
During this time, remember to only feed your child soft foods and liquids, while maintaining a balanced diet. Don’t forget to have them brush and floss their teeth, but gently around the crowned tooth to avoid damaging it.
Has tooth decay and physical trauma damaged your child’s teeth? If so, contact Dreamhouse Dental and we’ll attach stainless steel crowns on the teeth to restore their shape and functionality so your child can smile with confidence.
