Can You Eat Normally with a Permanent Crown? Tips and Considerations

Yes, you can eat normally with a permanent crown, however, there are a few considerations to keep in mind for optimal comfort and longevity.

Sensitivity

After getting a dental crown, you might experience some sensitivity to hot or cold foods for a few days. This is normal and should subside as your mouth adjusts. If the sensitivity persists, it’s important to consult with your dentist.

Soft Foods Initially

It's often recommended to stick to softer foods for the first few days after the crown is placed to allow your mouth to adjust. Gradually introduce more varied textures as your mouth gets used to the crown.

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods

While you can eat most foods, it’s best to avoid very hard foods like hard candies or ice and sticky foods like caramel that could dislodge the crown or cause discomfort. Pay particular attention to front teeth, as they are more visible and essential for aesthetics.

Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to keep the crown and surrounding teeth healthy. Brush and floss regularly, and be careful around the crown. Avoid using the front teeth for tasks like tearing open packages or chomping through hard foods.

Personal Experience: Caution with Front Teeth

I have a full set of crowns in my entire mouth. One of my front ones broke off after about a year when I was eating some hard sourdough rolls. My tooth under it snapped in half. I also did not realize because NO ONE mentioned this to me that you really do need to be more thoughtful and careful with your teeth after you get crowns.

I used to aggressively floss and use my front teeth to chomp through a lot of foods. One day, while eating caramels, I pulled up a bridge. This unfortunately led to the need for an implant, which is expensive and takes 4 months to heal while you wait to put the tooth part in. During this time, I had to wear a 'flipper', which made me lisp and gagged me quite a bit.

When you get a crown on the front teeth, especially be careful. Routinely check your crowns, and avoid hard or sticky foods that could cause damage. I now find myself stopping myself from ripping open things with my teeth and being very careful with hard frozen popsicles.

If you experience any pain or discomfort while eating, or if the crown feels loose, it’s a good idea to contact your dentist. Your dental hygiene habits will play a crucial role in the longevity of your crowns, so stay vigilant and attentive to your oral health.