Dental crowns protect and restore damaged teeth. They require proper care to maintain their integrity. This guide will help you understand how to prevent damage to a dental crown. Following these steps will help ensure your dental crown lasts as long as possible.
Care Tips for Dental Crowns
Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
Hard foods can crack your dental crown. Avoid biting into hard candies, ice, or nuts. These foods exert excessive pressure on your crown. This can cause it to crack or chip. Sticky foods can dislodge your crown. Stay away from caramel, taffy, and chewing gum. These foods can pull the crown off your tooth. If you must eat these foods, do so sparingly. Always use caution when chewing.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth twice daily. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles. Hard bristles can scratch your crown. Floss once a day to remove plaque. Be gentle around your crown. Use an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria. This prevents decay and gum disease. Good oral hygiene prevents issues that can affect your crown. Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to problems. Bacteria can build up around your crown. This can cause decay and gum disease. Both can affect the longevity of your crown.
Wear a Mouthguard
Use a mouthguard if you grind your teeth at night. Grinding can wear down your crown. It can also cause it to crack. A mouthguard will protect your teeth and crown. Consult your dentist for a custom-fit mouthguard. Over-the-counter mouthguards may not fit properly. A custom mouthguard offers better protection. Wear the mouthguard every night. Consistent use will help protect your crown.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Schedule regular dental check-ups. Your dentist will check the condition of your crown. They can detect early signs of damage. Regular visits help maintain your crown’s longevity. Your dentist can also clean around your crown. This removes plaque and tartar. Professional cleanings are more thorough than at-home cleanings. They help prevent decay and gum disease. Both can affect your crown. Regular visits also allow your dentist to address any issues promptly.
Avoid Using Teeth as Tools
Do not use your teeth to open packages or bottles. This can crack or chip your crown. Use scissors or bottle openers instead. Your teeth are not meant to be tools. Using them as such puts unnecessary stress on them. This can damage your crown. It can also damage your natural teeth. Always use the proper tools for tasks. This will protect your teeth and crown.
Be Mindful of Temperature Extremes
Avoid consuming very hot or cold foods and drinks. Extreme temperatures can cause your crown to expand or contract. This may lead to cracks or loosening. Sudden temperature changes are particularly harmful. For example, drinking hot coffee followed by ice water. This can cause your crown to crack. Be mindful of the temperatures of the foods and drinks you consume. Opt for moderate temperatures when possible.
Address Issues Promptly
If your crown feels loose or uncomfortable, contact your dentist immediately. Ignoring issues can lead to further damage. Prompt action helps prevent complications. A loose crown can fall off. This exposes your tooth to decay and damage. An uncomfortable crown may need adjustment. Your dentist can fix these issues. Do not wait to address them. Immediate action could protect your crown and tooth.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eat a balanced diet to support oral health. Include foods rich in vitamins and minerals. A healthy diet strengthens your teeth and gums. It also supports the health of your crown. Foods high in calcium are particularly beneficial. Dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds are good sources. Vitamin C is also important. It supports gum health. Citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers are rich in vitamin C. Avoid sugary and acidic foods. They can cause decay and damage your crown.
For more information on dental crowns or to schedule an appointment, visit Dr. Alla Brown and Dr. Amanda Newberry Lanier Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. They offer expert care for all your dental needs.