If you recently had a dental crown placed on one of your teeth, you’ll want to know the best way to take care of it. While a dental crown is designed to last for many years with proper care, there are steps you can take to ensure that it remains strong and functional for as long as possible. This article will discuss how to properly care for a new dental crown so that your investment lasts as long as possible.
When caring for a new dental crown, the most important thing you can do is practice good oral hygiene habits. This involves brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and flossing your teeth at least once a day. It’s also important to visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleaning. Doing so will help keep your dental crown clean and free of any potential damage from poor oral hygiene habits.
When brushing your dental crown, it is important to use gentle pressure and circular motions. This will help ensure that the area around the crown is well-cleaned without causing any damage to the dental work itself. You should also be sure to brush both the outside and inside surfaces of your dental crown as well as near the gumline where food particles may accumulate over time.
Flossing your dental crown removes any food particles or plaque that may have accumulated between the crown and your tooth. Start using an 18-inch piece of waxed dental floss to floss properly. Gently slide it between the gumline and dental work, ensuring you reach the crown's base. Make sure to floss both sides of the crown, below and above.
Professional cleanings are essential for keeping your dental work looking its best. During a professional cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will use special tools to remove any plaque and tartar buildup around the dental crown. They may also polish your crown to restore its shine and make it look brand new again.
When caring for a new dental crown, you should avoid chewing hard foods such as nuts, popcorn kernels, ice cubes and hard candy. These can cause damage to the dental work, potentially cracking or chipping it. Instead, stick to soft foods such as yogurt, mashed potatoes and cooked vegetables.
When chewing with your dental crown, you must be aware of any habits you may have that can cause damage. Many people tend to clench or grind their teeth when they chew, which can put extra pressure on the dental work and cause it to crack or chip over time. If you suspect you are clenching or grinding your teeth while eating, talk to a dentist near you about treatment options, such as a custom-fitted night guard.
It’s also important to avoid sugary treats when caring for a new dental crown. Sugary foods can promote the growth of cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth, leading to decay around the dental crown. If you indulge in a sugary treat, brush and floss afterwards to remove any leftover residue.
Sticky foods such as caramel or taffy should also be avoided when caring for a new dental crown. These foods can get stuck between the dental work and your tooth, potentially causing damage over time. If you do decide to eat these types of foods, make sure that you brush and floss thoroughly afterwards.
Visiting your dentist regularly is important in caring for a dental crown. During these visits, your dentist can work with you to ensure that the dental work is in good condition and there are no signs of potential damage or decay. Regular checkups are essential for keeping your dental crown looking its best and free from any signs of damage. During these visits, your dentist will examine the area around the crown and look for changes in shape, colour or size. If they find anything concerning, they may recommend additional treatments, such as a root canal or new crown placement.
Caring for a new dental crown is essential for keeping it looking great and ensuring that it lasts many years. By following proper brushing and flossing techniques, avoiding hard and sticky foods and visiting your dentist regularly, you can keep your dental crown in tip-top shape and maintain a healthy smile.
Answer: You should visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups and professional cleanings. X-rays may also be recommended to detect any signs of decay beneath the dental crown that are not visible during a regular examination.
Answer: You should avoid chewing hard foods such as nuts, popcorn kernels, ice cubes and hard candy. You should also avoid sugary treats and sticky foods such as caramel and taffy.
Answer: Yes, it is possible to repair a damaged dental crown. Depending on the extent of the damage, your dentist may be able to reshape or recontour the existing crown or they may recommend replacing it with a new one.