Learn how to maintain your dental crowns with our complete care guide. Know easy tips to keep your crowns in top shape and extend their lifespan.
Getting dental crowns is a major step toward restoring your smile, but it doesn’t end when you leave the dentist’s office. To make sure your crowns last as long as possible, you need to know how to maintain your dental crowns. Crowns are durable, but they require some TLC to keep looking good and functioning properly.
What is a Dental Crown?
Before diving into the care tips, let’s break down what a dental crown actually is. A crown is a custom-made cap that’s placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. Crowns are commonly used after procedures like root canals or when a tooth is too damaged for a regular filling. These caps can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or metal, and they’re designed to blend in with your natural teeth.
Now that you know what crowns are, let’s get into the best ways to maintain your dental crowns for the long haul.
Daily Care Tips to Maintain Your Dental Crowns
One of the best ways to maintain your dental crowns is by integrating simple, everyday care into your oral hygiene routine. Here’s what you need to do to keep them in top shape:
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
This might seem obvious, but brushing and flossing are your crown’s best friends. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the crown’s surface. Make sure you’re flossing gently around the crown, as rough flossing can dislodge it. Daily brushing and flossing help prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to gum issues or decay around the crowned tooth.
2. Choose the Right Toothpaste
Using any random toothpaste isn’t always the best idea when you want to maintain your dental crowns. Toothpaste that contains harsh abrasives can wear down the surface of your crown over time. Opt for a gentle formula designed for sensitive teeth or ask your dentist for a recommendation.
3. Stay Consistent with Dental Checkups
Don’t skip out on those regular visits to your dentist! Routine checkups allow your dentist to examine the condition of your crowns and catch any issues early. If you’re serious about learning how to maintain your dental crowns, then professional cleanings and inspections should be part of your care routine.
What to Avoid to Protect Your Crowns?
Just like there are things you should do, there are some definite don’ts when it comes to protecting your dental crowns.
Skip the Hard Foods
Chewing on hard foods like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels can crack or chip your crowns. Crowns are strong but not indestructible, so if you want to maintain your dental crowns, it’s best to avoid foods that put unnecessary stress on them.
No Nail Biting
Biting your nails is not only bad for your natural teeth, but it’s also terrible for your crowns. This habit can cause your crown to chip or become loose over time. Breaking this habit is crucial if you want to maintain your dental crowns and keep them intact.
Avoid Grinding Your Teeth
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can wear down your crown just like it does your natural teeth. If you have a habit of grinding, especially at night, talk to your dentist about getting a custom nightguard. A nightguard will help protect both your crowns and your natural teeth from excessive wear and tear.
Handling Issues with Your Crowns
Even with the best care, sometimes things go wrong. If you notice any issues with your crowns, here’s what you can do.
What to Do If Your Crown Feels Loose?
If your crown feels loose, it’s important to see your dentist ASAP. A loose crown is more likely to fall off or cause damage to the underlying tooth. To maintain your dental crowns, don’t attempt to fix it yourself, and avoid chewing on the affected side until you can see your dentist.
Managing Sensitivity
Some people experience sensitivity after getting a crown. This usually subsides after a few days, but if it persists, contact your dentist. Using a toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can help reduce discomfort. Sensitivity is often a sign that the crown might not be seated properly, so it’s essential to have it checked out if the problem continues.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
A crown typically lasts between 5 to 15 years, depending on how well you care for it. The better you maintain your dental crowns, the longer they’ll last. Regular dental visits, good oral hygiene, and avoiding damaging behaviors all contribute to the longevity of your crown.
What to Eat After Getting a Dental Crown?
Eating the right foods can help ensure your crown lasts longer. Here’s what you should (and shouldn’t) eat to keep your crowns in great shape:
- Eat soft foods like yogurt, eggs, and smoothies right after getting a crown. This reduces pressure on the crown while it settles.
- Avoid sticky foods like caramel and taffy. These can pull at your crown and even dislodge it.
- Limit sugary treats, as they can contribute to decay at the crown’s edges, especially if you’re not diligent about cleaning around them.
The key to ensuring your dental crowns last as long as possible is sticking to a consistent routine. Brush, floss, avoid hard foods, and visit your dentist regularly. If you follow these tips to maintain your dental crowns, you’ll be enjoying your restored smile for years to come. If you’re experiencing any issues with your crowns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist Long Beach, CA, for advice and care.