Crowns may be used to restore teeth that have been weakened by disease or trauma, and they can also be used to improve the appearance of a smile. Longevity is a major advantage of crowns and working with a reputable dentist like Mark Sutton DDS is crucial. Whether you have just one crown or a mouthful, following these five guidelines will help your crowns last as long and keep your smile looking great.
1. Maintain a high standard of dental hygiene.
Crowns protect the visible portion of teeth from decay and germs, but the natural tooth is still at risk. That is why it is so important for people to care for their teeth at home. You must brush at least two times a day and floss once daily. Consider using fluoride toothpaste for optimal protection against additional decay and harm to the tooth’s natural supporting structure. It is also recommended that people should use toothbrushes with very soft bristles. Brushes with very hard bristles should be avoided because of the wear and tear they may inflict on porcelain.
2. Put on a night guard
Those who tend to clench and grind their teeth during sleep might benefit from wearing a night guard to prevent damage to their teeth and crown. Specifically, it acts as a buffer between your upper and lower teeth, protecting your teeth’s enamel and crowns from being ground down. You can save your crown from being dislodged by grinding by doing this.
3. Stay away from anything too crunchy, sticky, or hard to chew
Crowns for teeth are sturdy and long-lasting; however, they are not indestructible. Food choices have a long-term effect on the success of your recovery. Certain delicacies, such as caramels and taffy, are so sticky that they may cause the crown to get loose. But eating hard things like candy or nuts might damage your crown over time. You should limit your intake of these items or avoid them altogether if possible.
4. Get rid of your negative habits
In addition to avoiding meals that are too hard, crunchy, or sticky, you should also give up other unhealthy behaviors that stress your crown unnecessarily. If you eat ice, for instance, your restoration might fracture or chip. If you eat ice often, you should stop doing so immediately. Therefore, it is not a good idea to remove price tags from goods or open packages by tearing them with your teeth (or dental crowns). Your teeth were not designed to open packages or pry open jars.
5. Check in with your dentist often
The crown and the tooth it rests on rely on regular inspections and cleanings at regular intervals (often every six months). In addition, your dentist may verify the crown is still “seated” and fitting correctly at each subsequent appointment.
Caring for your dental crowns does not have to be a daunting task. By following these tips, you can keep your crowns looking great and ensure they last for many years. So, start brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly, and your dental crowns will surely stay in top shape.
