13 Mar

Tips to Ensure That Your Dental Crown Lasts For Years

Tips to Ensure That Your Dental Crown Lasts For Years

A sparkling smile full of healthy, natural-looking teeth – that’s a goal for many people seeking cosmetic dentistry. And for teeth that are damaged or showing signs of decay, dental crowns can help create a picture-perfect smile. These tooth-shaped caps fit securely over teeth to strengthen, protect, and improve their appearance.

But don’t take these restorations for granted. Like your natural teeth, caring for your dental crowns is essential. Avoid “crown failure” and make your investment in oral health last by following these essential care tips mentioned in the blog.

Taking Care of Your Dental Crowns

A dental crown is an excellent way to restore a damaged or decayed tooth. With proper care, a crown can last for many years. Here are some tips to help you make dental crowns last long.

Get Regular Dental Checkups

See your dentist for a checkup and cleaning at least twice a year. During the exam, your dentist will inspect the crown and surrounding teeth for any signs of problems. Detecting issues early makes them easier to treat.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

Brush at least twice a day and floss once a day. Brushing and flossing removes plaque and bacteria that can lead to decay under and around the crown. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and a gentle flossing technique to avoid damaging the crown.

Avoid Hard, Sticky, and Crunchy Foods

Foods that are hard, sticky, or crunchy can dislodge or crack a dental crown. Avoid chewing hard items like ice, nuts, and hard candy. Caramel, chewing gum, and popcorn can also stick to dental work and damage it.

Wear a Mouthguard for Sports

If you play recreational sports, wear a custom mouthguard made by your dentist. A mouthguard protects the crown from trauma. Sports like basketball, soccer, and lacrosse can lead to dental injuries.

Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth to open packages, crack nuts, rip open bags, hold nails, and complete other tasks can crack or dislodge crowns. Protect your restoration by avoiding using your teeth as tools. Ask your dentist about options if you have an occupational need to use your teeth.

Get Broken Crowns Repaired Immediately

If a crown starts feeling loose, comes off, chips, or shows any signs of damage, see your dentist right away. Leaving a broken crown can allow bacteria to infect the tooth underneath. Getting it repaired quickly protects the tooth.

Consider a Crown for High-Risk Teeth

If you have a tooth that has required multiple root canals or repairs, ask your dentist about placing a crown on it to prevent future damage. Protecting a vulnerable tooth with a dental crown can help save it.

Take Steps to Prevent Teeth Grinding

Clenching or grinding your teeth puts intense pressure on dental crowns that can lead to cracks and loose crowns. If you have symptoms of teeth grinding, like sore jaw muscles or headaches, talk to your dentist. A night guard custom-fit to your teeth can prevent damage from grinding.

Get Dental Crowns Replaced On Time

While crowns are durable, they do not last forever. The normal lifespan for a crown is about 10 years. Make sure to have your crowns checked at your regular dental appointments. When a crown starts to wear down or show signs of problems, dental experts recommend replacement.

Preserve the Space for Missing Teeth

If a dental crown is placed where a tooth has been extracted, it’s important to replace it. Allowing other teeth to drift into the empty space can lead to problems with your bite and cause complications. Talk to your dentist about your options.

With proper home care and regular dental visits, your crowns can serve you well for years to come. Avoid harmful habits, report any issues promptly, and follow your dentist’s recommendations for crown care. With some simple precautions, your restored smile will stay healthy and beautiful.

Conclusion

With some attentive care and preventative habits, the crowns that bring new life to your smile can last for years without tarnish or complications. Avoid unnecessary repairs or replacements by brushing gently, protecting your crowns from damage, and reporting problems early on. See your dentist right away if you notice any signs of looseness, cracking, or changes in the tooth or gums around a crown.

By looking after your dental restorations, you can ensure your healthy, radiant smile will stay intact for decades to come. If you are looking for the best dental clinic in Kochi, visit Elite Dental Studio. We have an experienced team of dentists who can give the right treatment and aftercare to their patients. Book an appointment today to know more.

FAQs

How long do dental crowns last? 

With proper care, dental crowns typically last 5-15 years. Getting them replaced on time ensures the tooth underneath stays protected.

Can you eat normally with a dental crown? 

Yes, you can eat normally with a restored tooth. However, avoid sticky, hard or crunchy foods which could damage or dislodge the crown.

Do dental crowns come off easily? 

Crowns are securely attached to teeth with dental cement. With care, they should not come off easily. Avoid biting hard objects or using teeth to open items to prevent loosening or cracking crowns.

Can I whiten my teeth with a dental crown? 

You cannot whiten a dental crown at home or with strips since it is an artificial cover. However, your dentist can professionally whiten the crown to match better with the surrounding teeth.

How do I prevent decay under a dental crown? 

Brush twice daily, floss at least once daily, avoid sugary and acidic foods and drinks, use fluoride toothpaste, and maintain regular dental cleanings and exams every 6 months to catch problems early. This protects the natural tooth under the crown from decay.