Dental crown is a great solution for restoring damaged teeth, improving functionality, and boosting your smile. But like any dental work, crowns require proper care to ensure they stay in excellent condition for years.
While many may think of dental care as simple brushing and flossing, there’s more to it when it comes to dental crowns. This blog will walk you through a creative, step-by-step approach to caring for your dental crown.
Dental Crown: The Basics
Before diving into the maintenance tips, it’s essential to understand what a dental crown is and why it requires specialized care.
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. It can be made of materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. Whether you have a crown to protect a decayed tooth, cover a root canal, or for cosmetic purposes, maintaining its integrity is vital for overall oral health.
Step 1: Master the Art of Gentle Brushing
Brushing your teeth is fundamental, but when you have a dental crown, you’ll want to be more mindful of your technique.
- Choose the Right Toothbrush: Opt for a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid scratching or damaging the crown’s surface.
- Mindful Motion: Use circular motions rather than scrubbing back and forth. Be gentle around the crown area, especially near the gum line.
- Toothpaste Matters: Non-abrasive toothpaste is ideal, as certain kinds can cause wear on porcelain or ceramic crowns over time.
Step 2: Floss Like a Pro: The Dental Crown Edition
Flossing plays a crucial role in keeping both your crown and surrounding teeth healthy. With dental crowns, you should:
- Avoid Pulling Upwards: When flossing near your crown, avoid snapping or pulling the floss upward, which could dislodge the crown. Instead, gently slide it in and out.
- Use Dental Floss Picks or Water Flossers: These alternatives can help reach difficult areas without risking your crown’s stability.
Step 3: Be Mindful of Your Diet
Your food choices can directly impact the longevity of your crown. There are some important dos and don’ts:
Foods To Ignore
- Sticky Candies: Caramel and taffy can stick to your crown and cause it to loosen or shift over time.
- Hard Foods: Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or unpopped popcorn kernels. These can chip or crack your crown.
- Acidic Foods and Beverages: Limit acidic foods like citrus fruits and sodas, as these can erode the cement holding your crown in place.
Foods To Embrace
- Soft Vegetables and Fruits: These are gentle on your crown while providing essential vitamins.
- Lean Proteins: Soft meat and fish are ideal for a balanced diet without putting too much pressure on your crown.
- Dairy Products: Cheese and yogurt can help strengthen your teeth and protect your crown.
Step 4: Stay on Schedule with Regular Check-Ups
Even with perfect care at home, your dental crown still requires professional attention. Routine dental visits ensure that your crown stays in top condition. Here’s why:
- Professional Cleaning: Your dentist or hygienist will clean around your crown, removing any hard-to-reach plaque.
- Crown Examination: Dentists check for wear, chips, or loosening during routine visits. Early detection of any issues can prevent more significant problems later on.
- Gum Health Check: Crowns sit near the gum line, making it vital for your dentist to assess the health of the surrounding gums to avoid any infection or disease.
Schedule a visit every 6 months or as recommended by your dentist.
Step 5: Guard Your Crown with a Night Guard
If you tend to grind your teeth at night, your dental crown could be at risk of damage. To protect it:
- Invest in a Custom Night Guard: Your dentist can make a night guard that fits perfectly and protects both your natural teeth and crowns from grinding or clenching during sleep.
- Night Guard Care: Be sure to clean your night guard regularly to prevent bacteria build-up, which could lead to oral infections.
A simple night guard can dramatically extend the lifespan of your crown.
Step 6: Combat Sensitivity with Specialized Care
It’s not uncommon to experience some sensitivity after getting a dental crown, especially in the days following the procedure. Here’s how to manage it:
- Use Desensitizing Toothpaste: This can help reduce sensitivity around your crowned tooth.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Until the sensitivity subsides, stay away from very hot or cold foods and drinks.
- Monitor It: If sensitivity persists for more than a few weeks, reach out to your dentist.
Sensitivity typically lessens over time, but these steps can help manage discomfort while your mouth adjusts.
Step 7: Know When to Get Your Crown Repaired or Replaced
Dental crowns, while durable, don’t last forever. Be aware of the following signs that may indicate your crown needs repair or replacement:
- Pain or Discomfort: If you feel pain or sensitivity when biting down, it could signal a problem with your crown.
- Visible Damage: Chips, cracks, or worn-down surfaces are clear signs that your crown may need attention.
- Crown Feels Loose: If the crown shifts or feels unstable, contact your dentist immediately to prevent it from falling out.
Regular observation can help catch these issues early.
Take Care of Your Crown with Confidence
Dental crowns can last many years with proper care, but it takes mindful effort and routine maintenance. Protect your crown as you would your natural teeth, and don’t forget to wear a night guard if you grind your teeth. With these care tips, your dental crown will continue to function effectively and keep your smile looking its best.
Bonus Tip: If you recently received a crown and have any lingering questions about its care, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist for advice tailored to your situation. Your dental health is worth the investment.
