20 May 2025
Dental crowns serve to shield chipped teeth and enhance your smile. However, without adequate care, they may deteriorate sooner than one anticipates. Most individuals with crowns find it challenging to keep them in good condition, particularly if they are unaware of the best care tips.
If you’ve just gotten dental crowns in Carrollwood, you should know how to take care of them. Your crown may not be your natural tooth, but it still requires care. By using the right practices, your crown can last for years. In this article, we will guide you on how to care for dental crowns so that you can maintain a strong and healthy smile.
Why Is Dental Crown Care Important?
Dental crowns cover and protect your natural tooth underneath. While the crown itself cannot decay, the tooth and gums around it can. Poor care can lead to gum disease, decay near the edges, or even crown failure. That’s why dental crown care is just as important as caring for your real teeth.
What is Daily Care Like?
Caring for a crown does not need special equipment or costly products. Most times, your usual oral care routine will do. Brush at least twice daily and floss once daily. Brush gently around the crown, particularly near the gum line.
Some toothpaste brands contain abrasive materials that can scratch your crown. Ask a dentist near you which toothpaste is best for crowns. A soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste are usually safe choices.
Are Certain Food Items Bad for Dental Crowns?
Yes, some foods can damage crowns. Avoid chewing on hard items like ice, popcorn kernels, or hard candy. These can cause chips or cracks. Sticky foods, like caramel and chewing gum, may pull at the crown or loosen it over time. Sugary snacks can also increase the risk of decay at the edges of the crown.
Eating a balanced diet helps your crown and your natural teeth stay strong. Drinking water can also rinse away food particles and acids that harm oral health.
What Role Does Flossing Play?
Flossing is one of the most overlooked steps in oral hygiene with dental crowns. Food and bacteria can easily get trapped around the base of the crown, especially near the gum line. If you skip flossing, this buildup can lead to gum disease or infections.
Make sure you gently floss around your crown daily. If traditional floss feels difficult, try using a floss pick or water flosser. These tools can make flossing easier while still protecting your gums and crown.
Should You Avoid Teeth Grinding?
If you grind your teeth at night, talk to a dentist near Lutz about a night guard. Grinding puts extra pressure on dental crowns. Over time, this can cause your crown to wear down or even crack. A night guard will protect your teeth and help the crown last longer.
You should also avoid using your teeth to open packages, cut tape, or chew on pens or nails. These habits can quickly damage both your crown and your natural teeth.
How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
Regular checkups are key to keeping your crown in good shape. Dentists can spot early signs of damage or infection. They’ll also clean around the crown and check if it still fits well.
Plan to visit your dentist every six months. During these visits, your dentist will examine both your crown and the health of your gums and surrounding teeth. Preventive care is one of the best ways to avoid expensive repairs later.
How Do You Know If Something’s Wrong?
Be alert to changes in your bite, pain, swelling, or sensitivity near the crown. These can be signs that something isn’t right. A loose crown or pain when chewing should be checked as soon as possible.
If your crown falls out, save it and contact your dentist right away. Delaying treatment could expose your tooth to more damage.
Final Tips for Long-Term Success
Here are simple tips for keeping your crown in top shape:
Brush gently twice a day
Floss daily
Avoid sticky and hard foods
Use a night guard if needed
Visit your dentist every six months
Report any pain or changes
With the right care, a crown can last 10 to 15 years or more.
Protect your crown, protect your smile.
For expert help with dental care and long-lasting results, contact Smile Venue Dental today. Our team is here to support your dental health every step of the way.
