Caring for Your Dental Crown: Tips for Longevity and Maintenance

Do you have a dental crown? If so, it can significantly improve your smile and oral health, but how are you maintaining it?

Whether it was placed after a root canal or to restore a damaged tooth, your dental crown requires proper care to last for years. The way you care for your crown directly affects its longevity.

Are you ready to protect this essential part of your dental work? A few mindful habits and adjustments to your dental health regimen can make all the difference.

Here are some essential tips to help you keep your dental crown in great condition.

Handle Your Dental Crown Just Like a Real Tooth

Just because your dental crown isn’t a natural tooth doesn’t mean you can overlook it. Dental crowns are designed to mimic the strength and appearance of a natural tooth, but they’re still susceptible to wear, staining, and damage.

It would help if you continue practising good dental hygiene, which includes flossing and brushing at least twice daily. While crowns can’t develop cavities, the tooth underneath them still can, and plaque buildup can lead to gum issues around the crown.

A fluoride toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush are ideal for your crowns and natural teeth. Remember, gentle brushing ensures the crown stays in place and the surrounding area remains healthy.

Be Cautious of What You Bite Into

Though dental crowns are durable, they aren’t invincible. Certain habits, like biting your nails, chewing on ice, or crunching on hard candies, can lead to fractures or even dislodge the crown.

These habits also challenge natural teeth, but a crown can be particularly vulnerable to this pressure.

Being mindful of what you eat and how you chew can prevent costly repairs or replacements.

If you grind your teeth at night (also known as bruxism), it might be worth discussing with your dentist to get a nightguard to prevent overuse of force on your dental crown and natural teeth.

Pay Attention to Sensitivity

If you start noticing sensitivity in the area of your dental crown, don’t brush it off as something minor. It’s not uncommon to experience slight sensitivity right after your crown is placed, especially if the underlying tooth had extensive work done on it.

However, if the sensitivity persists or increases over time, it could be a sign that something isn’t quite right. You might be dealing with gum recession, exposure of the underlying tooth, or even a crown that no longer fits perfectly.

Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist when you notice anything unusual, like persistent sensitivity or discomfort. Early intervention is critical to preventing bigger issues.

Stick to Regular Dental Visits

Once you have a dental crown, you can relax during dental check-ups. However, regular visits to your Leederville dentist are crucial for ensuring your crown and the surrounding teeth stay healthy.

Your Leederville dentist will check for signs of wear, ensure the crown is fitted correctly, and check for any underlying problems that could affect its longevity.

Routine cleanings are also important. If not addressed, plaque and tartar can still build up around the crown, leading to gum disease. Make your appointments a priority—your dental crown will thank you!

Watch for Signs of Damage

Crowns are designed to last but can still wear down over time. Watch for any signs of damage, such as small chips, cracks, or a loose fit.

If your bite feels off or you notice a sharp edge on your crown, it’s time to book a dental visit. Ignoring these indicators may cause more severe issues, including exposing the tooth underneath to bacteria, leading to decay or infection.

Even if the damage seems minor, it’s always better to address it early. A simple adjustment or repair might be all needed to extend your crown’s life.

Manage Your Diet Wisely

Your diet greatly influences the durability of your dental crown. Avoid sugary meals and beverages in excess, as this can encourage the growth of bacteria around the crown and cause gum disease.

Sticky foods like caramel can also tug on your crown, potentially loosening it.

Try incorporating more tooth-friendly foods into your diet, like crunchy vegetables that naturally clean your teeth or dairy products that help strengthen your enamel.

A balanced diet not only supports your crown’s lifespan but also benefits your overall oral health.

Don’t Forget Your Gum Health

Your dental crown is only as healthy as the gums supporting it. Gingivitis or gum disease can weaken the foundation of your crown, making it more susceptible to issues.

Brushing and flossing regularly is essential, but remember other measures, like using an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your gums in top shape.

If you start noticing signs of gum inflammation around your crown—such as redness, swelling, or bleeding—it’s a good idea to consult your dentist. Addressing gum issues early ensures the area around your crown remains stable and healthy.

Protect Your Dental Crown with a Mouthguard

If you play contact sports or engage in any other activity that could impact your mouth, you must wear a mouthguard. While this might sound overkill, your dental crown is worth protecting.

A blow to the face could chip, crack, or even knock out your crown, leading to a painful and expensive fix.

Your Leederville dentist can provide a custom-made mouthguard that protects your natural teeth and dental crown.

Maintaining your dental crown doesn’t imply making significant adjustments to your daily schedule; it just calls for greater attention to detail. With proper care, your crown can last 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer.

By following these tips, you can help extend the life of your crown and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.

Dental Crown Management in Leederville

If you’re unsure about the condition of your dental crown or need guidance on maintaining it, don’t wait!

Schedule an appointment at Dentists on Vincent Leederville today to get professional advice and keep your dental work in good condition. A little care goes a long way in preserving your smile for years!

Call us at (08) 9242 4400 or visit us at 322 Vincent St in Leederville.

PARKING/PUBLIC TRANSPORT

There is ample car parking across the road from the practice

There are cafes and eateries within walking distance

LOCATION

Dentists on Vincent is located in Leederville, 14 min from Northbridge and only short stroll from Leederville Oval and Water Corporation