Patients considering dental caps may be concerned about the recovery process. Caps, or "dental crowns," as they are also known, are a fairly non-invasive dental procedure that should cause minimal concern afterward.
When Recovery Is an Issue
The period in which patients will feel the most pain and soreness is after their real teeth are shaved down (while the surrounding gums are numb) to make room for the dental caps. If the caps are being recommended for health reasons, this may also be accompanied by a root canal, which will make recovery a bit more slow.
The initial tooth-shaving process occurs several weeks before the permanent caps are available. Temporary caps are then placed over the teeth until the permanent ones are ready. Once the permanent caps are cemented correctly in place, the patient should feel little discomfort.
Treating Pain/Soreness
During the recovery process (after the initial temporary dental caps fitting), patients can use non-inflammatory pain relievers (aspirin and ibuprofen) to help with any tooth soreness. The patient may also feel soreness in the gums, which can be alleviated by rinsing with warm water mixed with salt three times a day. If the pain and discomfort lasts longer than two to three days, see the dentist or cosmetic specialist overseeing the procedure.
Recovery after receiving dental caps is actually a greater issue after the initial appointment in which the patient's teeth are shaved down. Light pain and soreness of the teeth and gums are to be expected, but patients should contact their medical professionals should the pain and soreness seem excessive or last more than a few days. There should be no pain or discomfort after the permanent caps are fitted; if there is, be sure to contact your dentist or cosmetic specialist.
