Whether you have had a temporary crown fitted (while your permanent crown is being made) or a permanent crown or bridge fitted today, the initial care is similar.
Numbness: The local anaesthetic may keep your mouth numb for 1–3 hours. Do not eat until you have full sensation back, and take care with hot drinks.
Sensitivity: Some sensitivity to hot, cold, and biting is normal and usually settles within a few days to a couple of weeks.
The gum may be tender around the crown margin (the edge where the crown meets the gum). This is normal after the preparation and fitting process.
Looking After a Temporary Crown
If you have a temporary crown in place while your permanent one is being made in the laboratory, it needs some extra care. Temporary crowns are not as strong as permanent ones.
Avoid sticky or very chewy foods (toffee, chewing gum, crusty bread) — these can pull the temporary crown off.
Avoid biting on very hard foods with the temporary crown.
When flossing near a temporary crown, do not flick the floss upwards — slide it out sideways to avoid dislodging the crown.
If the temporary crown comes off, keep it safe and contact your dentist. It is usually straightforward to re-cement. Try not to leave the prepared tooth exposed for more than a day or two.
Caring for Your Permanent Crown or Bridge
A well-cared-for crown or bridge can last 10–15 years or more. Here is how to protect your investment:
Brush twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste. Pay particular attention to the margin (the edge of the crown at the gumline) — this is where plaque accumulates and where decay can begin if hygiene is poor.
Clean under and around bridges: Food and plaque can collect under the false tooth (pontic) in a bridge. Use floss threaders, super floss, or an interdental brush to clean underneath daily. Your dentist or hygienist will show you the best technique.
If you grind or clench your teeth at night, discuss a nightguard with your dentist — grinding is one of the main causes of crown fracture.
Avoid using the crowned tooth to bite into extremely hard objects (ice, boiled sweets, pen lids).
Attend regular check-up and hygiene appointments — your dentist will monitor the crown margins and the health of the gum around it.
What Is Normal vs What to Watch For
Normal:
Mild sensitivity to hot, cold, and biting for up to 2 weeks
Slight gum tenderness around the crown for a few days
The crown feeling slightly different to your natural tooth at first
A minor adjustment needed if the bite feels slightly off
Contact your dentist if:
The bite feels significantly uneven after 3–4 days (simple bite adjustment needed)
Sensitivity is getting worse rather than better after 2–3 weeks
The crown feels loose or comes off completely
The gum around the crown becomes swollen, red, or bleeds easily (may indicate a gum problem at the margin)
You have persistent, severe pain or notice swelling
When to Contact Your Dentist Urgently
Contact your dentist promptly if:
Your permanent crown or bridge comes off — keep it safe, avoid eating on that side, and call your practice
You have severe pain that is not settling with painkillers
You notice facial swelling or develop a temperature above 38°C
The crown cracks or fractures
For out-of-hours urgent dental problems, contact your dental practice's out-of-hours number or call NHS 111. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
This leaflet is for general information only and does not replace professional dental advice. Your dentist will discuss your individual circumstances and any risks specific to you. Treatment outcomes vary between patients depending on individual circumstances.
When to Seek Urgent Help
Contact your dentist if your crown or bridge comes off, you have severe pain or swelling, the bite feels very uneven, or you notice the gum around the crown becoming red and swollen. Call NHS 111 outside of working hours if you cannot reach your practice.