A dental crown is a great solution for restoring a damaged tooth or enhancing its appearance. When properly maintained, dental crowns can last for many years, helping you maintain a beautiful and functional smile.
At Iris Dental, your trusted dentist in Point Cook, we understand how important your dental health is, and that includes making sure your crown stays in top condition. Here are some professional tips on how to care for your dental crown and help it last.
1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Just because your tooth is covered by a crown doesn’t mean you can neglect your oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing are key to preventing plaque build-up and decay around the crown. Plaque can still form on the natural tooth underneath, and if not removed, it can lead to gum disease or crown failure.
- Brush: Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the gumline and the area around the crown to keep it plaque-free.
- Floss: Floss daily, especially between the crown and surrounding teeth. If you find it difficult to floss around the crown, consider using a floss threader or special dental floss designed for crowns.
2. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
While dental crowns are durable, they are not indestructible. Eating hard or sticky foods can put excessive pressure on your crown and lead to damage. Hard foods like nuts or ice, as well as sticky foods like caramel, can crack or loosen the crown.
- Soft foods: Opt for softer foods that don’t strain your crown. When eating hard foods, chew on the opposite side of your mouth.
- Avoid sticky sweets: Sticky foods can get lodged under the crown or around the gumline, increasing the risk of decay or crown loosening.
3. Be Careful with Teeth Grinding
If you grind your teeth at night (a condition called bruxism), it can put undue pressure on your crown and cause it to wear down prematurely. Bruxism can lead to fractures or chipping.
- Nightguard: Ask your dentist in Point Cook at Iris Dental about a custom nightguard to protect both your crown and natural teeth while you sleep. Wearing a nightguard can significantly reduce damage from grinding.
4. Visit Iris Dental Regularly
Routine dental visits are crucial for keeping your crown in excellent shape. At Iris Dental in Melbourne, we recommend biannual check-ups to monitor the integrity of your crown and your overall oral health.
- Regular examinations: Your dentist will check for signs of wear or damage and professionally clean the area to remove plaque and tartar that brushing may miss.
- X-rays: X-rays can reveal underlying issues like decay beneath the crown or changes in the bone that aren’t visible during a regular examination.
5. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
Your crown is designed to handle normal chewing, but it’s not built for tasks like opening bottles or tearing packaging.
- Use proper tools: Always use scissors or a bottle opener instead of your teeth to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on your crown, which could lead to cracking or dislodgement.
6. Monitor for Signs of Problems
Even though crowns are durable, they may eventually need repair or replacement. Watch for any changes and contact Iris Dental if you notice:
- Sensitivity: If your crown becomes sensitive to hot or cold, it may signal a crack or bonding issue.
- Loose crown: A loose crown can expose the underlying tooth to infection. It’s important to have it re-cemented by your dentist straight away. This applies to both permanent and temporary crowns, which require careful attention.
With proper care, your dental crown can protect your tooth for many years, keeping it functional and attractive. At Iris Dental in Point Cook, Melbourne, we are dedicated to making sure your dental work stands the test of time. By following these care tips, practising excellent oral hygiene, and attending regular check-ups, you can help your crown last as long as possible.
If you have any questions about caring for your dental crown, including temporary crowns, or if you need a check-up, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our friendly team at Iris Dental.