A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or resin. They are typically used to protect a tooth that is too damaged to be repaired with a filling, or to hold a dental bridge in place.
Caring for a dental crown is important to ensure that it lasts for many years. Here are six quick and easy tips for caring for your crown:
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
The most important thing you can do to care for your dental crowns is to practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth and around the crowns. Make sure to rinse your mouth after meals and snacks to remove any food particles that may have become lodged in your crowns. Additionally, it is important to have regular dental check-ups to ensure that your crowns are in good condition.
2. Avoid Foods and Beverages That Can Stain Your Teeth
When you have dental crowns, it is important to avoid foods and beverages that can stain your teeth. Foods and beverages that are highly acidic, such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can cause discoloration of your crowns. Additionally, dark-colored berries, soy sauce, and tomato sauce can also cause staining. If you do consume these foods or beverages, make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards.
3. Be Careful With Hard Foods
It is important to be careful when eating hard foods, such as nuts, popcorn, and hard candy. These foods can cause the crowns to chip or crack if they are bitten down on too hard. If you do eat hard foods, it is important to chew them slowly and carefully. Additionally, avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or bottles, as this can damage your crowns.
4. Avoid Using Your Teeth as Tools
It’s important to avoid using your teeth as tools. This means don’t crunch on hard objects such as ice cubes, open packages with your teeth, or chew on pencils or pens. These activities can cause chips or cracks in the crown, which can lead to serious dental problems in the future. Additionally, avoid grinding your teeth, as this can cause the crown to become loose or fall off. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, speak to your dentist about getting a custom-made night guard.
5. See Your Dentist Regularly
It is important to see your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist will be able to check for any signs of wear and tear or damage to your crown. They can also check to make sure that your crown is properly fitted and that it is not causing any discomfort. Additionally, they will be able to provide advice on how to best care for your dental crown and give you tips on how to maintain good oral hygiene.
6. Don’t Neglect Your Crowns
It is important to take care of your crowns just like you would any other tooth. Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Additionally, floss at least once a day and use mouthwash to keep your mouth clean. Make sure to keep your crowns free from plaque buildup, as this can lead to decay and cavities. If you have any questions or concerns about caring for your crowns, don’t hesitate to speak to your dentist.
Conclusion
It is important to take care of your dental crowns to prevent decay and keep them lasting as long as possible. There are a few things you can do to take care of your crowns, including: brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding hard foods, and visiting your dentist for regular checkups. By taking care of your crowns, you can help keep your smile looking its best.
Are you looking for a family dentist in Melrose, MA? Dr. Piro Leno and the staff at Melrose Family Dental offer patients comprehensive dental care and education about their oral health. Visit us today!