How to Care for Your Dental Crowns to Extend Their Life?

Got a new dental crown? With the right care, it could last well over a decade! Dental crowns protect your teeth, but they need a little care to stay strong. From brushing tips to food choices, here’s everything you need to know about keeping your crown in top shape and avoiding unnecessary dental trips.

Understanding Dental Crowns

Dental crowns in Smithfield come in various materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Each type is designed to mimic the appearance of your natural teeth while providing durability and protection. Dentists recommend crowns for various reasons: they can restore a cracked tooth, cover a large filling, or even support a dental bridge. Understanding the purpose and material of your crown is helpful because each type may have specific care requirements.

Crowns are built to last, but even the strongest ones aren’t indestructible. Everyday habits and wear can impact their longevity, which is why knowing how to take care of them is essential. If you’ve just received a crown or have had one for years, these care tips will keep it looking and feeling its best.

Daily Cleaning and Hygiene Tips

Proper hygiene is key to protecting your dental crowns and avoiding issues like decay or gum disease that can weaken the surrounding teeth. Here are some daily habits to keep your crown in top condition:

• Brush Gently Twice a Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around the crown carefully. Hard brushing can wear down the crown’s surface, so a gentler approach will keep both the crown and the neighboring gum tissue in good shape.
• Avoid Abrasive Toothpaste: Toothpaste with gritty particles can scratch the surface of your crown, leading to dullness and wear. Opt for a non-abrasive formula to preserve its shine and smooth texture.
• Floss Daily: Flossing eliminates plaque and food particles that get trapped between your crown and adjacent teeth. Regular flossing prevents plaque buildup, which can compromise your crown and the surrounding teeth.
• Use a Mouthwash: Adding a gentle, alcohol-free mouthwash to your routine can help rinse out any lingering particles and keep your mouth fresh. Mouthwash can also help control bacteria around the gumline, which is important for crown health.

Foods to Avoid for Long-Lasting Crowns

What you eat plays a major role in the durability of your dental crown. While crowns are strong, some foods can still pose risks. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Avoid Hard and Crunchy Foods: Ice, hard candies, and popcorn kernels can cause cracks or chips to your crown, especially if it’s made of porcelain. If you enjoy crunchy foods, go for softer alternatives, like sliced apples or well-cooked vegetables.
• Stay Clear of Sticky or Chewy Treats: Caramels, gummy candies, and taffy can latch onto your crown and cause it to loosen over time. These sticky treats can also get trapped in areas that are hard to clean, leading to decay around the crown.
• Limit Stain-Causing Drinks: Crowns can stain over time, especially if they’re made of resin or porcelain. Reduce your intake of coffee, tea, juice, and red wine, or rinse your mouth with water after enjoying these beverages to keep your crown looking bright.

Eating habits can have a surprising impact on your dental crown. By being mindful of what you chew, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear and keep your crown looking fresh.

Managing Teeth Grinding (Bruxism) and Other Habits

Having a tendency to grind your teeth, also known as bruxism, can put extra pressure on your dental crowns. This habit often happens during sleep and can cause wear, cracking, or loosening of the crown. Here’s what you can do to protect your crowns from these habits:

• Use a Nightguard: If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may advise you to get a custom nightguard. This protective device cushions your teeth and prevents pressure on your crowns, extending their lifespan.
• Avoid Using Teeth as Tools: Resist the urge to open packages or twist bottle caps with your teeth, as these actions can damage your crowns. Stick to proper tools instead.
• Refrain from Chewing on Hard Objects: Many people chew on pens, pencils, or fingernails without realizing the impact it can have on their teeth. Try to get out of these habits, as they can put unnecessary strain on your crown.

Routine Dental Visits for Checkups

Regular dental visits are very important for keeping your crowns in optimal shape. The dentist near you can examine the crown’s condition, spot any early signs of damage, and clean areas that are hard to reach with regular brushing and flossing. Here’s why checkups matter:

• Professional Cleaning: Dental professionals have the tools and techniques to clean your crowns thoroughly. This extra care can help remove stubborn plaque buildup that home care can’t address.
• Early Detection of Issues: During routine exams, your dentist will check for signs of wear, cracks, or looseness in your crown. Catching these issues early means they can be addressed before they turn into bigger, more costly problems.
• Gum Health Monitoring: Healthy gums provide a strong foundation for your crown. Your dentist can ensure that the gum tissue around your crown remains healthy, as inflammation or recession can affect the crown’s stability.

Scheduling regular visits with a dentist in Smithfield helps you protect your crown and maintain a strong, healthy smile.

Conclusion

Taking care of your dental crown doesn’t require a complex routine. With simple daily habits like gentle brushing, avoiding certain foods, and regular checkups, you can keep your crown in top shape. Small adjustments can lead to big benefits, preserving both your crown and your natural teeth.

By treating your crown with care and following these tips, you’ll ensure that it remains a lasting part of your smile, giving you confidence and comfort. For expert guidance and support, book an appointment with Webber Comprehensive Dentistry today. Regular checkups allow us to monitor your crown’s condition and offer personalized advice, helping you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.