A dental crown is a valuable investment in your oral health, often restoring the function and appearance of a damaged tooth. Whether you’ve received a crown due to decay, a root canal, or to support a dental bridge, proper maintenance is crucial for maximizing its longevity and protecting the surrounding teeth and gums. While crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. Knowing how to maintain your dental crown can help protect your investment and prevent worsening dental conditions.
Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene
Even though a crown itself is not susceptible to decay, the tooth structure beneath it still is. This means that brushing twice daily and flossing at least once a day remains just as important as ever. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to avoid wearing down the crown’s surface. Pay particular attention to the gum line where bacteria can accumulate and cause inflammation or decay around the base of the crown.
Flossing is equally critical, especially around the crown. Use gentle techniques to avoid dislodging it. Slide the floss out rather than snapping it up and down. Some people find that water flossers offer a more comfortable and effective method for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, especially around crowns and bridges.
Be Cautious with What You Chew
Dental crowns are strong, but they aren’t invincible. Biting down on hard foods like ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels can crack or chip a crown just like it can a natural tooth. Sticky foods like caramel or certain chewing gums can potentially pull at the crown and loosen it. If you frequently chew on pens, your nails, or other non-food objects, breaking the habit will help preserve the integrity of your crown.
Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles, as this creates unnecessary stress not just on the crown, but on all your teeth. If you grind or clench your teeth, especially during sleep, consider talking to your dentist about a custom night guard. Bruxism is a common cause of crown damage and can significantly reduce the lifespan of your dental work.
Schedule Regular Dental Checkups
Routine dental visits play a key role in maintaining your crown and overall oral health. During these checkups, your dentist can examine the crown for signs of wear, check the fit, and ensure that there are no developing issues beneath or around the crown, such as decay or gum disease. Professional cleanings also help remove tartar buildup that you can’t get rid of at home, reducing the risk of inflammation or infection near the crown. If you feel any discomfort, experience sensitivity, or notice a change in your bite, don’t wait until your next appointment. Promptly consulting your dentist can prevent minor issues from turning into costly repairs.
Be Mindful of Temperature Sensitivity
Some people experience sensitivity to hot or cold foods after getting a dental crown, especially shortly after placement. This is often due to the crown settling or minor inflammation in the surrounding gum tissue. In most cases, this sensitivity will subside with time. However, if the discomfort persists or intensifies, it may signal a problem with the crown’s fit or an underlying issue with the tooth. Your dentist may need to make adjustments or investigate further.
Choose the Right Oral Care Products
Selecting the right dental care products can extend the life of your crown. Alcohol-free mouthwash is generally recommended, as alcohol-based products may weaken the dental cement over time. Additionally, some whitening toothpastes can be too abrasive and may cause premature wear to the crown’s surface or make it appear dull compared to your natural teeth. Ask your dentist to recommend products that are compatible with your crown material, especially if you have porcelain, ceramic, or metal-fused crowns, as each type has different sensitivities and care needs.
Protect Your Investment
Dental crowns are designed to last many years, often over a decade with proper care. By combining good daily hygiene, mindful eating habits, regular dental visits, and attentive product choices, you can ensure that your crown remains functional, attractive, and comfortable for as long as possible. Taking these steps not only protects your crown, but also supports your overall oral health for years to come.
At Smile Viera, your oral health is our top priority. If you suffer from decay or damage, a dental crown could help preserve your natural tooth structure and prevent worsening conditions. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.