To care for your dental crown and make it last, you should brush twice daily with non-abrasive toothpaste and floss gently around the base of the restoration.
It is also important to avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or hard candy, as these can chip the porcelain material.
Wearing a nightguard if you grind your teeth and visiting your dentist in Fairview for regular check-ups will further extend the life of your crown.
What is the Best Way to Clean Your New Crown?
Maintaining a healthy mouth is the most important step in protecting your investment. When you visit a dentist, they will show you how to properly clean the area where the crown meets your gum line. This area is a common spot for plaque to hide, so keeping it clean prevents decay from forming under the cap.
Getting Dental Crowns in Fairview is a great way to save a damaged tooth, but the tooth underneath still needs protection. You should use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean all surfaces of the crown just like a natural tooth.
Being gentle ensures that you do not irritate the surrounding gums while you remove food particles.
How Do You Floss Without Dislodging the Crown?
Flossing is vital, but many people worry about pulling their new restoration loose. If you are visiting a dentist near you, ask them to demonstrate the “slide-out” technique for flossing.
Instead of pulling the floss back up through the teeth, you should pull it out through the side to avoid catching the edge of the crown.
Habit | Impact on Crown | Recommendation |
Flossing | Removes bacteria at the margin | Pull the floss through the side |
Chewing Ice | Can crack the porcelain | Avoid completely |
Sticky Candy | Might pull the crown off | Limit or chew on the other side |
Night Grinding | Wears down the material | Wear a custom nightguard |
What Foods Should You Avoid to Protect Your Teeth?
While your new tooth is strong, it is not indestructible and can still break under heavy pressure. You can keep a healthy smile with dental crowns by being mindful of the foods you choose to eat.
Very sticky foods like taffy or caramel can create a suction that might loosen the dental cement over time.
If you have many crown restoration options to choose from, such as porcelain or zirconia, remember that they all have limits.
Biting down on popcorn kernels or olive pits can cause small fractures in the material. If you feel a sharp edge or a crack, you should book an appointment to have it smoothed out or repaired right away.
Why are Regular Check-ups Necessary for Maintenance?
Professional cleanings are the only way to ensure that your restoration is still sealing the tooth properly. During an exam, the dental team will use special tools to check the “margins” or edges of the cap.
This helps them find tiny gaps that you cannot see in the mirror before they turn into bigger problems.
Regular visits also allow the team to check your bite and see if the crown is hitting your other teeth too hard.
If the bite is uneven, it can cause the crown to wear out much faster or lead to jaw pain. A quick adjustment can save you from needing a full replacement later on.
A Lasting Foundation for Your Healthy Smile
Taking care of your dental work is just as important as the procedure itself. By following a simple routine of cleaning and avoiding hard foods, you ensure that your restoration remains a functional and beautiful part of your mouth for years. Consistency today leads to a stronger, more comfortable smile tomorrow.
At Fairview Dental Clinic, we are here to help you maintain your oral health with expert guidance and gentle care. Our team is committed to ensuring that every restoration we provide is built to last and fits your life perfectly.
If you have questions about your dental work or need a routine check-up, we invite you to reach out to us for a professional and supportive experience.
FAQs
How long does a dental crown usually last?
With excellent care and regular check-ups, most crowns can last between 10 and 15 years. Some patients find that their restorations last even longer if they maintain strict hygiene habits and avoid using their teeth as tools.
Can a dental crown get a cavity?
The crown itself is made of materials that cannot decay, but the natural tooth structure underneath it still can. If plaque builds up at the gum line, a cavity can form where the tooth and crown meet, which is why flossing is so important.
What should I do if my crown falls off?
If your crown comes loose, keep it in a safe place and call your dental office immediately. Do not try to glue it back on with household glue, as this can damage your tooth and make it impossible for a professional to reattach it.
Is it normal for a crown to feel sensitive to cold?
It is common to feel some temperature sensitivity right after the procedure, but this should fade within a few weeks. If the sensitivity continues or feels like a sharp pain, your dentist may need to adjust the fit of the crown.
