Caring for Your Dental Crown: Dos and Don’ts

A dental crown is a reliable solution for restoring a damaged or decayed tooth, but like your natural teeth, it requires proper care to maintain its appearance and functionality. Whether you’ve just received your crown or have had it for some time, understanding how to care for it will help you get the most out of your restoration. Here’s a guide to the dos and don’ts of caring for your dental crown.

Dos: How to Care for Your Dental Crown

1. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

• Brush and Floss Daily: Just like your natural teeth, your dental crown needs regular brushing and flossing to keep it free from plaque and bacteria. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean your crown.
• Floss Carefully: When flossing around your crown, slide the floss out rather than pulling it up and down. This prevents the floss from catching on the crown’s edges, reducing the risk of dislodging it.

2. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

• Routine Check-Ups: Regular dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the condition of your crown and surrounding teeth. Dr. Richard Toland can check for any signs of wear or damage and ensure that your crown remains securely in place.
• Professional Cleanings: In addition to at-home care, professional cleanings are crucial for maintaining your crown’s health. Your dentist or hygienist can remove plaque and tartar buildup in areas that are difficult to reach on your own.

3. Be Mindful of What You Eat

• Choose Foods Wisely: While your dental crown is durable, it’s still important to avoid biting down on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies, which can crack or damage your crown. Sticky foods, like caramel, can also tug at the crown and should be eaten with caution.

4. Use a Nightguard if You Grind Your Teeth

• Protect Your Crown: If you’re prone to grinding or clenching your teeth, wearing a nightguard can help protect your crown from unnecessary pressure and potential damage while you sleep.

Don’ts: What to Avoid with Your Dental Crown

1. Don’t Ignore Sensitivity

• Address Discomfort Promptly: It’s normal to experience some sensitivity after your crown is placed, but if it persists or worsens, contact your dentist. Prolonged sensitivity could indicate an issue with the crown or the underlying tooth.

2. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools

• Avoid Bad Habits: Using your teeth to open packages, bite your nails, or tear off tags can damage your dental crown. Always use appropriate tools for these tasks to protect your crown and natural teeth.

3. Don’t Skip Dental Appointments

• Stay on Schedule: Regular check-ups are key to ensuring the long-term success of your crown. Skipping appointments can allow potential issues to go unnoticed, leading to more significant problems down the line.

Keeping Your Dental Crown in Top Shape at Toland Dental in Wynne, AR

Taking care of your dental crown is essential for maintaining its longevity and functionality. By following these dos and don’ts, you can keep your crown—and your smile—in excellent condition. At Toland Dental in Wynne, AR, Dr. Richard Toland and our team are here to support you with personalized dental care and expert advice. Whether you need routine maintenance or have concerns about your crown, we’re here to help.

If you have questions about caring for your dental crown or need to schedule a check-up, contact Toland Dental today. Let’s work together to keep your crown—and your entire smile—healthy and strong!

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Categorised in: Dental Crowns