A dental crown is a long-term investment in your oral health, designed to restore the strength, function, and appearance of a damaged tooth. Whether you’ve had a crown placed due to decay, a root canal, or to cap a dental implant, proper care is essential for its longevity. Crowns can last anywhere from five to fifteen years or longer, depending on how well you look after them. Fortunately, caring for a crown is not complicated, and many of the steps align closely with general oral hygiene practices.
Establishing a Strong Oral Hygiene Routine
One of the most important ways to care for your dental crown is by maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Even though the crown itself is made of durable material and is not susceptible to decay, the natural tooth structure underneath still is. Bacteria and plaque can accumulate at the gumline where the crown meets the tooth. This increases the risk of gum disease or decay beneath the crown. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and using a soft-bristled toothbrush can help protect both the crown and the surrounding gum tissue. Flossing daily is equally important, especially around the crown, to remove food particles and plaque that brushing might miss.
Being Gentle While Cleaning
While your crown is designed to be strong, it’s wise to avoid using harsh tools or abrasive products that could scratch or wear down the crown’s surface. Use non-abrasive toothpaste and avoid whitening products directly on the crown. They may cause uneven coloring over time. It’s also recommended to use gentle flossing techniques. For some patients, a water flosser or interdental brush might offer an easier and more effective way to clean around the crown without causing irritation or damaging the edges.
Avoiding Damaging Habits
Certain habits can shorten the life of a dental crown. Biting your fingernails, chewing on ice, or using your teeth to open packages can all place unnecessary pressure on the crown and lead to cracking or chipping. Similarly, if you grind or clench your teeth, you might unknowingly be putting excess stress on your crown. In such cases, wearing a custom night guard prescribed by your dentist can help protect your investment.
Watching What You Eat
While you don’t need to drastically change your diet, it’s a good idea to be mindful of what you eat. Sticky candies, hard nuts, and extremely crunchy foods can loosen or damage a crown, particularly if it hasn’t fully bonded yet. Avoid habits like constantly chewing on one side of your mouth or biting into hard foods with the crowned tooth. These actions can cause uneven wear or dislodge the crown. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports healthy gums, which are vital for the support and longevity of your crown.
Scheduling Regular Dental Checkups
Routine visits to your dentist are crucial not only for cleaning and maintenance but also for monitoring the condition of your crown. During these visits, your dentist will check for signs of decay, gum recession, or damage to the crown that might not be visible or noticeable to you. They may also take X-rays to ensure the underlying tooth and root are healthy. Early detection of any issues could prevent more serious problems down the line and better ensure that your crown lasts as long as possible.
Staying Alert to Changes
Pay attention to how your crown feels day-to-day. If you notice a change in your bite, new sensitivity, or pain in the crowned tooth, don’t ignore it. These can be signs of underlying problems, such as the crown loosening, gum recession, or infection beneath the crown. Prompt dental evaluation can help prevent the need for more extensive treatment later.
Dental Crown Care in Skokie, IL
At The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry, we are dedicated to preserving your natural tooth structure. If you have decay or damage, a dental crown could prevent the need for an extraction. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your restorative dentistry treatment options.