Dental crowns are an excellent solution for restoring damaged or weakened teeth, providing strength and durability while enhancing your smile. However, just like natural teeth, crowns require proper care to maintain their longevity and keep your oral health in top shape. Otherwise, you may face issues with your dental health and lifestyle.
Understanding Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. Your dentist will cement dental crowns onto existing teeth or implants. Then, they become a permanent part of your smile.
Because dental crows are a permanent part of your smile, it is vital to care for your restorations properly. Caring for your dental crowns is crucial for several reasons:
Longevity: Proper care can extend the lifespan of your crowns. It allows them to last for many years.
Oral Health: Good oral hygiene around your crowns helps prevent gum disease and decay.
Aesthetics: Well-cared-for crowns retain their natural appearance. This makes sure that your smile stays beautiful.
Daily Care Tips for Dental Crowns
Just like natural teeth, dental crowns require regular brushing at least twice a day. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Gentle, circular motions help clean the crown and the surrounding teeth.
Flossing is essential for cleaning between teeth and around the base of the crown. This is a place where plaque can build. Therefore, you must use a floss threader or special floss designed for dental work to ensure thorough cleaning.
Crowns are durable, but they can still crack or break with excessive force. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, hard candies, or unpopped popcorn kernels.
Certain foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and berries, can stain dental crowns over time. If you limit your consumption or rinse with water after consumption, it can help maintain their color.
Visit your dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings. These appointments allow your dentist to assess the condition of your crowns, check for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure your overall oral health.
Handling Potential Issues
Some people experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting a dental crown. This sensitivity usually subsides, but if it persists, inform your dentist.
If you notice your crown feels loose or comes off, contact your dentist immediately. Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth until the crown is properly re-cemented.
Despite their durability, dental crowns can develop cracks or chips, especially with trauma or biting on hard objects. If you notice damage, see your dentist promptly for repair.
Additional Tips for Optimal Crown Care
There are other ways that you can protect your crown and your smile.
Mouthguards: If you grind your teeth at night (bruxism), wearing a night guard can protect both your natural teeth and crowns from damage.
Avoiding Tobacco: Smoking or using tobacco products can stain crowns and increase the risk of gum disease. Quitting or avoiding these habits benefits both your oral health and the longevity of your crowns.
Professional Cleaning: Your dentist or hygienist may recommend specialized cleaning tools or techniques to ensure thorough cleaning around your crowns.