• A CEREC crown is fabricated and delivered in a single visit using digital scanning and ceramic milling technology. After placement, the tooth and surrounding tissue may feel irritated or mildly sore for several days. This is normal. Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication as directed unless contraindicated.
• Chew carefully while numb to avoid biting lips or cheeks. Once numbness resolves, test your bite. A crown that feels “high” or contacts prematurely can cause soreness, muscle fatigue, or fracture risk. Our office emphasizes accurate occlusion in all definitive restorations; call if the bite does not feel even.
• Avoid chewing on hard foods (such as ice, hard nuts, dense granola, and hard candies) on the crowned tooth for the first 24 hours. The resin cement used to bond the crown continues to achieve full strength during this period. After 24 hours, normal chewing is acceptable.
• Sensitivity to cold or chewing pressure can occur temporarily as the tooth and surrounding tissues heal, especially if the tooth had deep decay or stress cracks. This sensitivity usually improves over 2–4 weeks. If pain increases rather than improves, or if the tooth aches spontaneously without stimulus, call for evaluation.
• Brush and floss normally beginning the same day. When flossing, slide the floss out through the side instead of pulling up sharply until accustomed to the new contours. Minor gum soreness around the crown margin is common and resolves with routine home care.
• If you grind or clench your teeth, a night guard may be recommended to protect the new crown from long-term stress. Ceramic materials are strong but can fracture under heavy occlusal load.
• If a temporary crown is placed, avoid sticky foods and call if it dislodges. If the final crown is already delivered, no temporary precautions are needed.
• Attend all recommended recall visits to monitor tissue health, crown margins, and overall bite harmony.