How Do I Take Care Of My Dental Crown?
A dental crown is placed on a tooth to stop the tooth from breaking or wearing down. A crown can be used to restore stained, chipped or mis-shaped teeth. A crown may also be beneficial for a tooth that's had root canal treatment as it protects and provides shelter to the damaged and restored interior of the tooth. But do you know how to take care of your dental crown?
Over time a crown may need to be replaced. This may be because it has been worn down, due to wear and tear or lifestyle choices or has faults. The longevity of your crown depends on a number of factors such as the material used to make the crown, the condition of surrounding teeth, oral hygiene practices, and of course your lifestyle choices. Whether you have a porcelain crown or a ceramic or metal crown, it needs to be looked after.
Generally, a crown is long lasting. However this is dependant on how well you take care of it. In this blog we explore how to take care of your dental crown so it lasts the distance.
Have A Dental Hygiene Routine At Home That Includes Crown Care
Maintaining good oral health is critical in taking care of your crown.
When the crown is first applied, you should be gentle when brushing and flossing. You may notice that your gums are more sensitive around the crowned tooth and treatment area. Initially, using a sensitive fluoride toothpaste and a soft bristled brush is recommended. Also, take care not to be overly rigorous with your brushing motion or your flossing.
Even though your crown is designed to protect your tooth from decay and gum disease, that doesn't mean you can neglect your oral hygiene routine. In fact it is more important than ever!
Flossing can reach those nooks where food particles like to accumulate and eventually cause issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
Plaque can build up on both both natural teeth and crowns. Food particles can collect around crowns as they do with natural teeth and gums. This means, like natural teeth, they need to be cleaned carefully and regularly - twice a day and with regular flossing. This will make sure the area remains clean and you are taking care of your dental crown.
Also, abrasive toothpastes can mark the crown, so look out for toothpastes that are gentle on your crowns surface.
Have Regular Professional Scale and Cleanings
Like natural teeth, plaque and tartar deposits need to be cleaned. A professional scale and clean can gently and thoroughly remove any tartar buildup. This will help minimise the risk of tooth decay and cavities forming and undermining the tooths structure.
Have Regular Checkups To Review Your Dental Crown
While a dislodged crown may not be a dental emergency, it is good to have a dislodged, chipped, loose or faulty crown looked at by the dentist.
Attending regular checkups are also a great opportunity to have your crown reviewed and adjusted. It is a preventative measure to stop any little problems becoming big headaches.
Avoid Chewy and Sticky Foods with Temporary Crowns
Temporary crowns are often used to tie you over while the permanent crown is being fabricated to your individual dimensions and specifications. Its role is to protect your tooth and ensure the tooth is in the right condition to receive the permanent crown.
However, by the nature of its temporary nature, it has not been permanently cemented into place. Hard or chewy foods can lift the crown from its temporary spot on the tooth. To avoid this from happening by not eating:
- nuts
- hard vegetables and fruits - i.e.. apples, carrots etc
- boiled lollies
- ice
- tough or hard foods such as meat or bread
It is also a good idea to brush gently. Use a sliding action with dental floss - between the crowned and neighbouring tooth.
It is also recommended that hard, tough, crunchy and sticky foods be avoided with permanent crowns.
Use a Nightguard To Protect Your Crown
If you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard could provide relief and protection for your new crown. You may or may not be aware that you suffer from a condition known as bruxism. this is where you clench and grind your teeth. This may damage your crown or dislodge it altogether. A nightguard can shield and protect your crowned tooth, bearing the force of the clenched jaw and helping it avoid unnecessary strain.
Watch Those Lifestyle Choices
It's a good idea to ditch those bad habits as they can undermine the durability and lifespan of your crown. This includes biting your nails or chewing your pen. Review your diet and if playing contact sports consider a mouthguard.
Optimise Your Dental Routine Today!
Your teeth are an important part of your overall appearance and confidence. Make their care a feature of your overall health and wellbeing by getting solid and consistent oral hygiene practices in your day to day routine.
Want to learn more?
Call our friendly staff at Woodville & Seaton Dental Clinic on (08) 8268 5422 and book an appointment today!
