A dental crown is a long-lasting dental restoration that helps restore the strength, appearance, and function of a severely damaged tooth. While these restorations are strong, proper dental crown care ensures their durability and prevents potential complications. The following guidelines can help you preserve your newly restored tooth and maintain your long-term oral health.
A dental crown covers most of a tooth, acting similarly to a hat that covers the top of one's head. However, it does not completely remove the risk of tooth decay or gum disease. The natural tooth beneath the crown and the surrounding gum tissue require regular cleaning.
Similar to natural teeth, patients with a new crown should brush their teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. They will need to pay special attention to the gumline around the crown to prevent plaque buildup and inflammation. Additionally, rinsing afterward with an antibacterial mouthwash can reduce bacteria that can lead to decay or infection.
Routine dental visits allow the dentist to monitor the dental crown and the supporting tooth structure. They can identify potential issues when they first appear, such as:
During these check-ups, the dentist can perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing cannot remove.
Dental crowns are made from strong and durable materials. However, it is possible to damage them with excessive force. Fortunately, protective measures can reduce the risk of premature damage. For example, wearing a nightguard is beneficial for those who grind or clench their teeth, particularly while they sleep. Similarly, active individuals can wear a mouthguard during contact sports to protect their teeth and the surrounding tissues.
Patients with a new dental crown should not ignore any pain, increased sensitivity, or change in their bite. These symptoms may indicate an issue with the crown's fit, a structural problem with the underlying tooth, or complications involving the surrounding soft tissue. When patients schedule concerns with a dental professional promptly, they can prevent further damage to their crown, ensuring it continues to provide comfort and support.
Using teeth to open bottles, tear packaging, or hold items places unnecessary stress on a dental crown and the surrounding natural teeth. This habit can cause the crown to loosen, fracture, or fall out. Natural teeth and dental restorations alike are designed for chewing food, not being used as tools.
Specific foods and beverages can shorten the life of a dental crown. Sticky foods, such as caramel or taffy, can pull at the crown and loosen it over time, leaving the underlying tooth and surrounding soft tissues vulnerable to decay. Hard foods may cause chips or cracks in the dental crown. Additionally, excessive consumption of sugary or acidic drinks increases the risk of decay in the natural tooth and surrounding teeth beneath the crown.
A dental crown is a valuable restoration that requires thoughtful care to remain effective for as long as possible. Would you like more tips to care for your new dental crown? Call Friends Family Dental & Braces today to learn more or to schedule a follow-up appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.brooklynfriendsdental.com or call Friends Family Dental & Braces at (718) 804-5230 for an appointment in our Brooklyn office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns and Dental Bridges in Brooklyn, NY.
Have you chipped a tooth? Read on to learn about the importance of prompt treatment for chipped teeth. You need to reach out to a dental office immediately if you have a chipped tooth. Otherwise, the issue might worsen over time and become more serious. The dentist will examine the tooth and recommend restorative treatment…
Clear braces have grown in popularity over the past couple of decades due to their discreet nature. They are transparent, rigid plastic trays that apply a constant force to a person's teeth when worn. They slowly move the person's teeth toward a more appropriate alignment.Treatment with clear braces starts with the patient getting a series…
Aftercare is key to avoiding complications after tooth extraction. One common complication is dry socket, when the blood clot at the extraction site is lost or fails to form properly, exposing the bone and nerves underneath. Understanding how to care for the mouth after tooth extraction can help prevent dry socket and promote healing.Dry socket…
A brighter smile can boost your confidence and leave a lasting impression. Professional teeth whitening from a dentist is a safe and effective way to get noticeable results without harming your teeth. Unlike store-bought whitening products, these treatments are designed for your specific needs to ensure better care. Here are five main reasons why many…
*In case of a life threatening emergency, immediately call 911.
**For any medical procedure, patients respond to treatment differently, hence each patient’s results may vary.
***Information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content contained on or available through this site is for general information purposes only..
****By using this website and sending us your information, you are giving us permission to contact you by electronic and non-electronic means. We also track the conversions and collect user data to improve marketing.
*****If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact us.